IT’S been a difficult 12 months in many ways for the Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre (SRNC).
There are plans for the organisation to move to a new venue, with manager Lee Watts informing councillors that the sale of the building in September 2015 had piled pressure on the service.
“The first issue we struggle with is the amount of time being spent by staff fundraising to purchase a building to relocate to,” she said at the monthly meeting last Monday.
“The second is the reduction of space has made it difficult to offer programs and attract funds.”
The SNRC’s financial report, ending June 30, showed a loss of $52,314 compared to the same time last year.
One of the biggest reasons was the closure of the Aberdeen Information Centre, which cost the SRNC $25,904.
Equipment and facilities also came in at a loss of $23,609 during the period.
Mrs Watts told Upper Hunter Shire Council the organisation would need to create new services, bring back old ones, and create others in order to generate more income.
“The upcoming year will see many of the same services continue,” she said.
“However, as a need or issue arising, a new program may be created.”
Some of the events that will continue include Harmony Day, Mental Health Awareness, White Ribbon, Family Fun Day, Christmas in the Park, and Santa Photos.
To assist with other projects and services, the SRNC is now planning to host a skills auction fundraiser on February 18.
Mrs Watts said the centre was “hoping for a miracle”.
“This, we see, as a step towards our own venue and we hope to see each of you there,” she said.
“It has been a struggle to inform the community we are underfunded and that we are not a council organisation.
“After 12 months, there is finally an understanding that we are a community group that needs support like any other group.
“The committee, staff and community thank the council for their ongoing support and look forward to working together in the future.”
