Its manager, Brenda Beauchamp, said there had been a steady stream of visitors to see what they did. The aim was to make the day a lot of fun, with popcorn, free children’s books, face painting and stalls. 

She said: “It’s been a wonderful turnout.”

Some of those who came were from organisations across the region with whom the Centre works and others were local people who came in out of curiosity.

It’s part of a drive by the centre to raise its profile in the community as the state government changes the way it allocates funding. 

The state government wants organisations which help the needy to focus on particular groups, like children under the age of three, and it wants groups to cooperate more so that gaps in the service are filled. Duplication between groups would have to be eliminated if funds were to be easily available. 

The Community Centre which helps some of the most disadvantaged in society wants to know what people think of its service.

“Come in and talk to me”, Brenda Beauchamp said, “Fill out a survey which will help the Centre better face the Targeted Early Intervention changes in funding that are scheduled in 2020.”

With challenging change in government policy on the way, the Community Centre, like other groups needs a higher public profile. Its work with the poor and lonely people is often done with a low profile.

A host of groups helped with the Open Day on Monday.

 “The Country Women’s Association are cooking up a storm”, said Brenda Beauchamp, “so lovely morning tea” was be available for a small price. Lunch was free.”

On top of the open day this week, the Centre also offers free lunches once a week to people for whom free,nutritious food is very valuable.

It is funded by charities around town but funding from government is also very important.