Salamander Bay: Help is available to Port Stephens community at Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre

But help is available, is the clear message from the not-for-profit Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre, which has come to be known as 'the heart of the community'.

Centre manager since 2018, Georgina Scott said that the organisation located in the Salamander Bay library and community centre helps identify community needs, provide relevant information and referrals to other services to help empower and improve the quality of life for individuals and groups.

"I have always had a passion for helping people, and this role really fulfils that for me. The Neighbourhood Centre is a wonderful community, supportive and warm environment where people come to interact and communicate seeking support," said Ms Scott, a qualified community service worker who is studying a course in leadership and management.

"We have just completed a very successful program at Anna Bay Public School titled 'Well I Am', which supports our youth to develop knowledge, understanding and practices to take control of their own emotional, mental and physical wellbeing."

The program was born from an increasing awareness of the number of children facing difficulty with their personal wellbeing, and the effects this has on their life including lack of social skills, low self-worth and declining academic performance.

"We are hoping to get more funding to run a similar program at Soldiers Point and possibly a second one at Anna Bay," she said.

"Also on the drawing board is an Indigenous art program featuring local Tanilba artist Koori Colours. This teaches young children the art of Aboriginal symbols, design and painting using t-shirts, skateboards and bodyboards."

Ms Scott said that the centre received great financial support from a range of Port Stephens businesses and community groups, and hampers delivered to the needy had predominantly been donated by the Soldiers Point Lions club and Mad Monday Quilters.

"For people suffering hardship or crisis we can provide a variety of crisis support, access to financial counselling and we can provide information and referrals to family and friends of people with drug dependency issues," she said.

"We also run the Smart Recovery program (in person or over the phone) out of Tilli Place in Tanilba Bay."

There are also volunteer information sessions, computer training for seniors, a multicultural friendship group, low cost access to office services, wide community information, and various programs and workshops throughout the year.

So if you are in need of support or are just looking for information call into the office located in the Salamander community centre, visit tomareeneighbourhoodcentre.com.au or email tomaree@bigpond.com.

The office hours are 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday.

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