Fairhaven has received $40,000 from the State Government to refurbish its Point Clare base, including upgrades to the roof and accessibility around the site.
For six decades the disability services provider has helped local people living with disability secure jobs and accommodation and has enabled them and their families to the broader community.
Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, joined staff, volunteers and community members to celebrate the grant from the 2022 Community Building Partnership Program.
“Fairhaven has been so dedicated to enriching the lives of people living with disability across the Central Coast for the past 60 years,” Tesch said.
“It is a great friendly place to call in for a coffee or a meal and you can always find great treasures in the recycled and up-cycled every-day markets.
“Fairhaven’s key site at Point Clare – also known as The Hub – will be refurbished through the increased funding, and I cannot be more delighted that such a deserving organisation will be able to continue to offer programs and services to people living with disability for many more years to come.”
Fairhaven Interim CEO Rhona Wheatley said the funding was timely, with the organisation celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.
“The Hub was one of the first buildings on site – it is where participants come to do different activities ranging from drumming to cooking,” she said.
“The old roof is rusted through, and surfaces around the site need fixing as tree roots have taken hold and broken up the pathways and concrete.
“The Hub is the focal point for people living with disability in the area, and it is vital that it is fully accessible and watertight.
“Fairhaven is self-funded and receiving any sort of grant or support is crucial for us.
“We are so appreciative of this funding.”
Tesch said the money would help provide a safe, inclusive, and accessible site for people with disability to enjoy for years to come.
“The Hub is the centre of Fairhaven,” she said.
“As a long-standing and deeply impactful organisation for so many in the area, I know that this funding will see great outcomes for all.”
Source:
Media release, Feb 22
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch