‘Dream’ comes true for region’s in-demand support services
THE first childcare centre in a region north of Brisbane has been handed over to charity which has already outgrown its home.
Moreton
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CABOOLTURE Community Action (CCA) is on the move after outgrowing its current premises.
Last week the not-for-profit organisation was given a new headquarters by Moreton Bay Regional Council (MBRC) at 23 Hayes St.
“It’s really a dream we’ve had for ages, but never thought would come,” CCA member Sharon Geeves said.
“We’re so grateful we’ve got it and so pleased with the council for actually choosing our group.”
Since 2009 CCA services have increased so fast it had outgrown its home at 6 Bertha St.
CCA does weekly meals and Christmas hampers for those who can’t afford them, but has also introduced services such as counselling, referrals and mobile laundry and showers.
“We’re grateful for this (current) house Mancorp Quality Homes provide us — but as we’ve grown the need has skyrocketed,” Ms Geeves said.
“It’s difficult to put out the services with things like privacy and talking to people with significant issues. We take them out to a cafe or try to walk around the block to find a space.
“This will streamline our work and make it far more comfortable.”
CCA will pay $1 rent per year to council for the duration of the five-year lease, in a building which was previously occupied by Caboolture’s first childcare centre.
Hayes Street Community Child Care was sold to MBRC last year for a quarter of its value with the expectation it would be used as a public asset.
Councillor Adam Hain (Div3) said 250 community groups across region were on similar arrangements through MBRC’s community leasing program.
“This is a brilliant example of how council continues to support organisations across the Moreton Bay region through unique initiatives and CCA is no exception,” he said.
Queensland Meals on Wheels has been given a similar lease for its current site next door at 21 Hayes St.
QMOW state manager David Dannister said he hoped the two groups could collaborate in the future. QMOW serves 90 meals per day across the region.
Phone Caboolture Community Action on 5309 4122 for more information on its services.
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