Our new community outreach hub, because we’re stronger together
When support is close, change feels possible. As an organisation on a mission to restore connection, dignity and direction for those impacted by addiction and social isolation, we offer culturally safe care that meets people where they are. Solid partnerships are foundational to our work because we’re stronger together, and we’re excited to announce an initiative that brings our clients and community together – our community outreach hub.
At Marrin Weejali, we support Aboriginal people and anyone living in Western Sydney with programs and events that lead to happier, freer lives. We rely on genuine collaboration to help repair shattered spirits and families. Here’s what you need to know about our community outreach hub and about the importance of partnerships in general.
About the hub
Located at our Blackett centre, the hub operates fortnightly on Fridays from 12 pm to 2:30 pm. It provides a welcoming space where community members can connect with a range of applicable support services, all conveniently in one place. Having multiple services under one roof makes it easier for people to access help without needing to navigate complex systems or spend hours waiting elsewhere.
The hub brings together a variety of organisations that offer practical support, health and wellbeing services, as well as advice on housing, legal matters and much more. Participants include:
- Anglicare
- Ombudsman
- Aboriginal Housing Office
- Aboriginal Legal Service
- Sydney Region Aboriginal Corporation (SARC)
- State Revenue
- Birribee Housing
- Western Sydney Community Legal Centre
- Centrelink
- Housing
- Births, Deaths and Marriages
- Service NSW
Meeting people where they are
Many people facing addiction, trauma or housing instability struggle to access traditional services due to barriers like lack of transport, cost or mental health factors. Long-term social challenges can also create deep mistrust of institutions and their advice, so it’s vital we meet people where they’re at and offer what they need in a way that rebuilds trust and helps overcome those barriers.
Our community hub also allows people to access support in a more relaxed, culturally inclusive environment that prioritises relationships. It’s a flexible, drop-in style service with no superfluous paperwork, no strict appointment times, no waitlists and no referrals required.
The familiar surroundings help our clients overcome feelings of stigma or discomfort. The regular presence of additional service providers builds routine and confidence for those seeking support. This visibility also sends a clear message to the wider community that help is available and ongoing, not just a one-off thing.
Working together for better outcomes
Many of our clients are dealing with overlapping issues, so having access to multiple supports in one place makes taking that first step much easier.
Shared spaces also allow for warm, personalised support, which helps clients engage more confidently and achieve better outcomes.
When services work together, it shortens communication lines and reduces the delays that too often leave vulnerable people disengaging from the process.
Our outreach hub works because other service providers are willing to show up physically and consistently in a place where our clients and community already feel safe.
We’re deeply grateful for these partnerships and the willingness of each organisation to make access to support as simple and human as it should be.
The presence of multiple trusted service providers helps normalise help-seeking and shows there is nothing to fear.
It sends a clear message that no one is alone.
Recovery and empowerment
Some in our community are living with addiction and have gone without basic support for a long time, which can make it even harder to take that first step toward change. Without safe housing or a stable income, recovery can feel out of reach. Experiences of discrimination when asking for help in the past can also make people reluctant to try again.
Navigating multiple government departments can be overwhelming, especially when literacy, mental health or language barriers are involved. Legal issues, such as fines or court matters, can also compound stress and derail progress, so having everything a person may need under one roof really simplifies the process and increases independence and stability.
Take the first step towards healing and reconciliation
Recovery from addiction requires a holistic approach, and support works best when it comes from many hands, not just one. We recognise the value of partnering with external providers to ensure our community can access the full range of services they need.
If you’re looking to connect with services, please feel free to drop in to our community hub, held fortnightly at Marrin Weejali.
For those struggling with addiction, we offer culturally safe programs that support individuals and families across Western Sydney. Our services are open to both Aboriginal and non-Indigenous people.
You are welcome at Marrin Weejali.
Contact us for a confidential discussion.
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