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Andrew Powell, Member for Glass House and John-Paul “JP” Langbroek, Shadow Minister for Communities, have recently visited Neighbourhood Centres in the Glass House electorate.

First up was the Mooloolah Valley Community Association Inc. who are not only completely self-funded, they have done so well through their op shop that they are able to help fund other not for profit groups from time to time.

“You might not know that they also provide money to the local school for the students of financially disadvantaged families from local schools who need books, money for excursions and more,” said Mr Powell.

Anita Verwayen, Vice President of MVCA Inc. added “we also have disability aids for hire and will be revamping our website soon. Be sure to check it out for information on all our lesser-known services.”

The next stop was Morris House Landsborough Neighbourhood Centre, a charming community hub that provides non-perishables, fresh bread, assistance with PBS prescriptions, petrol vouchers and so much more to Landsborough and Beerwah.

“While we were talking to the Morris House team, I learnt that they’re also advocating for a shower to be installed at the Landsborough toilet block so that the homeless population have somewhere to freshen up,” said Mr Langbroek.

“What a brilliant initiative from a grassroots group that knows exactly what the local community needs.”

Up until two weeks ago the Woodford Community House team were building a thriving service in a little house on the Main Street of Woodford. Unfortunately, they’ve had to move out and are now trying desperately to find a new venue so that they can continue offering resources like counselling, showering and laundry services and potentially being a meals on wheels drop off point.

Meanwhile, the Glass House Mountains Neighbourhood Centre are offering counselling services, a fully stocked cupboard with linen, baby and personal hygiene products, a book swap and community lunches.

“Regrettably, the funding they receive barely covers operating expenses but they’re doing the best they can,” said Mr Powell.

“Together with Morris House they service the Beerwah area as Beerwah doesn’t currently have their own Neighbourhood Centre. They’re stretched pretty thin.”

“Hopefully the recent announcement of increased funding will see some of that coming the way of our fantastic community and neighbourhood centres”, concluded Mr Powell.

Our communities are richer for the volunteers that run these centres and all the time they selflessly contribute.