The Nawton/Crawshaw residents eagerly wait to celebrate some good news as the Good News Community Centre opens this week, bringing more opportunities for families.
Trustee for Te Rongopai Community Trust Burt Jackson said he wants people in the community to feel at home in the centre and make the most of the facilities.
"This low-income area will now have access to a large multi-purpose hall, a well-equipped kitchen, lounge, offices, another multi-purpose room and ablution facilities," he said.
Trust Chairperson Susanne Rowse said she is excited to finally have these great new facilities as a quality venue.
"Already under way or planned are a pre-schoolers' playgroup, a Friends and Neighbours social group, a youth group and after-school club. Indeed, one special focus is children and youth. Through a popular Sunday afternoon games and family meal programme the centre is providing positive activities, leadership experience, social integration and support including for children and young people who would otherwise be bored and at risk," she said.
Also being explored are budgeting services, a homework club, computer workshops, gymnasium and physical fitness programmes.
"We want local people to feel the centre is theirs, suggesting and helping us provide what the area needs - maybe work readiness or parenting courses, cooking - there are endless possibilities," she said.
The opening ceremony of the Good News Community Centre will be tomorrow at St Mark's Church on the corner of Dominion Road and Breckons Avenue. A karanga and powhiri at 1.30 pm will begin a short dedication service by Reverand Joel Rowse and Bishop Helen-Ann Hartley.
The new facility has been financed by charitable funding agencies, many generous private donors and gathered outstanding support from many Hamilton businesses and groups but it still needs to be equipped.
If you think you can help in cash or in kind, or for any other information, please contact Susanne Rowse, 027 3098 568, susanne.rowse@gmail.com , or Bert or Robyn Jackson, (07) 853 7080, bert.jackson@xtra.co.nz , or visit http://www.terongopai.org.nz