One stop for community help

From housing needs to health checks, charities from across Marlborough came together last week to show people what help is available in the region.

The Christchurch Methodist Mission and DISC Trust hosted their annual open day earlier this month at their Scott Street base, with supporting organisations from across the community offering their services and detailing how they can help those in a range of difficult situations.

CMM housing team leader Ruth Lloyd said that housing was a small part of the holistic support available and they’ were pleased by the day’s community impact reaching those who need it.

“Days like today invite people to come to an atmosphere of invitation, where they can get the information or do what they need in a judgement-free zone,” she said.

“There’s many issues within my area of housing, whether people need short term help or longer-term assistance, but that’s just one need and therefore just one aspect we cover with these open days.”

The Scott Street base hosted Marlborough’s range of health services, including free flu vaccination and illness checks alongside opportunities to connect with mental and physical health organisations. “Whenever people come to us for help, we’re connecting help with need, which is the main goal for every stall here today,” she added.