“The Volunteers at the Neighbourhood Centre are feeling shattered and disappointed … our office was broken into and vandalised and hampers made from donated gifts to give to those less fortunate in the community were stolen. At this time of year when we should be caring for one another it is shameful.”
This was the disheartening news Uralla residents awoke to on social media channels last Sunday morning. The Uralla Neighbourhood Centre (UNC) was the target of vandals who caused extensive damage in gaining entry to the building and made off with several baskets of donated Christmas items which were to be distributed to community members in need over the holiday period.
“We had gift baskets taken with things like toys, books and kids games,” said Kathy Dodd, Vice President of the UNC Operating Committee.
“We had a number of baskets made up of towels, throw blankets, tea towels, shampoo, personal care packs, baskets for males, gardening items – anything you would like to receive yourself.”
“We had these ready to distribute at our Food Pantry on Monday, but it is the children and the vulnerable people who will now, ultimately, miss out.”
UNC provides community support services including the Uralla Food Pantry and access to emergency food relief, wellbeing and hygiene facilities, support and referral services for members of the community, as well as Escape Bags for people fleeing domestic violence situations.
These services have always been provided in a discrete and confidential manner. With vandals forcing entry to the service provider’s office and administration hub, the UNC has been left with a real sense of invasion of privacy.
“The damage that was done will need to be repaired and that must be paid for out of the fundraising that our very hard-working volunteers do,” said Carol Barnden, UNC Public Officer.
“This cuts into what we are able to give back to our community, which makes this act even more disappointing.”
“If you need something all you have to do is come and ask us for it. That’s what we do, we’re here to help everyone.”
This brazen break in took place sometime between 9.30pm on Friday night and 2.30pm on Saturday afternoon. In an unfortunate twist, a police response has been delayed due to a number of very serious incidents in Armidale on Saturday to which the newly appointed Uralla-based officer had been required to attend.
Since news of this incident was made public, the support from the community has been overwhelming for the operators, who are more used to providing support than being on the receiving end.
“We have heard from many concerned people who want to be able to help us and the community,” Ms Dodd said.
“Community members have asked what we need and are so keen to give something back to those who need it. We have also been contacted by ACEN to provide some assistance and BackTrack in Armidale who have offered in-kind support to help repair some of the damaged doors and things.”
“We truely appreciate the community wanting to help and if our community are able to contribute, any donations will be greatly appreciated, especially this close to Christmas.”
“We live in such a wonderful, caring Community. Uralla Neighbourhood Centre wish you all a very merry Christmas but remember to be vigilant over the Christmas and New Year period, check on your neighbours and stay safe.”
If you would like to help Uralla Neighbourhood Centre provide their much-needed support to the children and vulnerable people of the Uralla Community this Christmas, please contact the Centre on (02) 6778 3277 or take any donations directly to their office at 27 Salisbury St Uralla.
Top image: Catherine Gallaher, President of Uralla Neighbourhood Centre Operating Committee. (Beth Platford)
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