Community services: what people ask before they walk in

The hub at 754 Darling Street has been open to whoever walks in for more than forty years, and the only thing anybody is expected to do on the way in is come in. Even so, people hesitate at the door. Do I qualify? Do I need to prove something? Is this for me? Here are the answers, so that the first visit is easier than you think it will be.

Food, and who it is for

Do I have to be referred, or prove anything, to get food?

No. Breadnesday on Wednesdays and the Pop-Up Pantry on Fridays are open to anyone who walks in, and nobody will ask you to explain yourself. For weekly meal deliveries we do need a few details so the driver can find you, and you can refer yourself.

Is any of this only for people on a low income?

No. The hub is open to everyone who lives, works or spends time in the Inner West. Some people come because money is tight, some because the week is lonely, and plenty of people come for both reasons and never say which.

What is Good in the Hood, and is it the same as together²?

They are a separate charity that we work in partnership with. They provide the volunteers, the home cooks and the local restaurants behind the meals. We provide the hub, the kitchen and the coordination. They grew out of this centre and we have been working together since 2020.

Joining in

How do I start volunteering?

Call us or drop in. There is a short conversation about what you would enjoy and what hours suit, some paperwork depending on the role, and then a first shift alongside somebody who has done it before. You need to be reasonably reliable and reasonably kind. We will show you everything else.

Can my school take part in the cooking program?

Yes, we would be glad to talk about it. The program is built around local schools and it works best when a teacher is willing to be involved rather than just send a group. Get in touch and we will work out what fits your term.

Can I run my own activity here?

Often, yes. A good number of our groups exist because somebody walked in with an idea. Tell us what you have in mind.

Mort Bay, and booking

Do I need to book for the Mort Bay activities?

Yes. Mort Bay has no office and nobody sitting at a desk, so it is the one place you cannot simply drop in on. Ring or email ahead and we will save you a spot.

What runs there?

Choir on Monday, dance group on Tuesday for NDIS participants, yoga on Wednesday, community garden sessions through the week, and peninsula barbecues that are open to the public.

Do I need to book for anything at the hub itself?

No. The door on Darling Street is open Monday to Friday, and drop-in is the point.

Still not sure? Ring first if that is easier than walking in. Call 02 9556 9500 or get in touch.