Community Centre
For more than 30 years, Coast Shelter’s Community Centre has provided free meals, as well as personal, financial, legal and health support and care for the most vulnerable people in our community.
The service is an inclusive and safe meeting place for all people when they need help the most. We are also the only men’s crisis refuge between Hornsby and Tweed Heads.
Through the generous support of over 200 volunteers, corporate and financial donors, the Community Centre kitchen prepares and serves thousands of meals every year.
Providing essential support
Our Community Centre provides essential support to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship, homelessness, and social exclusion. Services include:
- Distribution of meals and food hampers
- Prescription support and medication access
- Financial assistance and general support
Making a difference
15,124 individuals
visited the Community Centre.
39% increase
in personal care services.
Food Recovery and Partnerships
The food recovery program is strengthened through generous partnerships with local businesses, and these contributions, alongside support from individuals, remain critical to our ability to serve those in need.
- Woolworths Gosford, Woolworths Lisarow, and Aldi Wyoming provide regular food donations that form the backbone of our daily meal service.
- B&M Quality Meats and Hewitt Meats supply fresh meat, enabling the Community Centre to deliver a consistent and nutritious menu.
- Sanitarium’s Healthy Kitchen Program supports the Community Centre in securing a reliable supply of fresh, seasonal vegetables from local growers and producers on a weekly basis, enhancing the quality and nutritional value of meals served.
Health and Wellbeing Services
Through strategic partnerships, health offerings are expanded to improve access to essential care.
- Services Australia provides on-site support assisting clients with urgent needs.
- Health on the Streets delivers mobile health checks.
- Central Coast Eyecare provides prescription glasses to clients receiving full Centrelink benefits.
- Central Coast Local Health District and local medical centres partner to provide COVID-19, flu, and Hepatitis C vaccinations.
Therapeutic Programs and Community Engagement
Creative programs and outreach initiatives strengthen social connection and community engagement.
- Art Therapy sessions provide women with tools to reduce stress and build confidence.
- The Sewing Group supports social connection, skill development, and emotional wellbeing among participants.
- The Maritime Initiative supports individuals living on boats by connecting them with local services.
Coast Shelter Community Center
Partners and Local Supporters
We’re proud to work alongside businesses and community organisations who share our commitment to the Central Coast. Current partners include Sanitarium, Woolworths, Moov Modular, Eastcoast Beverages, Bendigo Bank, and many more.
*Names changed for privacy