Ararat Neighbourhood House has provided essential services through its food hub during the coronavirus lockdown.
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Neighbourhood House manager Lou Makin said each week they have delivered around 40 food hampers to residents.
"We are just one of a range of supports that are available in the community to help keep people surviving during this time," she said.
"The impacts of the coronavirus have been felt through the whole community.
"A lot of people are impacted in many ways through the loss of income or strain on mental health."
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The Ararat Neighbourhood House provides two programs through their food hub - Second Bite and Foodbank.
"We include a selection of fresh fruit, vegetables and pantry items," Ms Makin said.
"Individuals can make an appointment and we pack a bag of goodies and knock on their front door. Sometimes we visit a few times a week or just once ... it varies depending on the client.
"Each week we also deliver food hampers to clients at the Patricia Hinchey Centre.
"We also have a partnership with the department of justice. One of their residential services has been preparing cooked meals from produce they collect from Second Bite."
Ms Makin said they plan to organise more social activities online for their members.
"That's something that is new for us. We are looking at ways to deliver our programs online, for people who can't make it to the venue," she said.
"We want to get the knitting group back up and running. We have plans to run cooking sessions and a basic living skills course ... hopefully next term.
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"We are exploring all options at this stage. We hope to be able to reach many more people."
Ms Makin said before the COVID-19 outbreak, they were building an inclusive garden space at the Neighbourhood House.
"It's an accessible space. There are concrete paths throughout which will allow those with mobility issues to access," she said.
"We look forward to getting that finished and inviting members of the community to start. They can plant their own veggies and tend their own gardens."
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