Harvesting hope in Blacktown

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Community Centre in Blacktown (Sydney, NSW) is harvesting hope by supporting Sydney’s most vulnerable people.

Run predominantly by volunteers, the centre offers a range of services from food parcels to social work, but is best-known for its free, quality counselling.

“We have a variety of clients coming in with a wide range of needs and challenges, but the beautiful part is watching the volunteers just come alive and know exactly how to meet those needs and how to serve these clients,” said centre manager Grace Copoceanu. “It’s hard not to be proud of this place.”

ADRA Australia national programs director Charlene Luzuk said, “Our faith is the backbone of everything we do. With Jesus as our ultimate example, we aim to meet people where they are at and help to meet their physical and emotional needs.

“But it often doesn’t end there, as we also have something to offer to help them meet their spiritual needs where invited and appropriate. We don’t push our faith onto others, but we are ready and willing to share if a client’s heart has been opened to become more curious about hearing about Jesus. Our Blacktown centre is blessed with a chaplain who can assist the counsellors and social workers in this space so we can wholistically offer the best support to our clients.”

Andrew*, a man in his 40s, lost his wife and child in an accident. He turned to ADRA for support when he began contemplating suicide.

“He struggled to enter back into the workforce and found himself facing eviction for falling behind on his rent,” said Ms Copoceanu. “His low literacy levels prevented him from filling out needed documents, including creating a resume.”

The centre’s social work team was able to help Andrew create a professional resume, support him in applying for jobs, as well as navigate the housing system to ensure he did not become blacklisted. Further support referrals were also made, which in turn provided Andrew with mental health support and other material aid needed.

Three months later, Andrew returned to ADRA offering to support in any voluntary capacity he can in gratitude. “ADRA’s social workers may very well have saved my life,” he said. “I want to give back.”

— Ashley Stanton

For depression and suicide support, visit Beyond Blue at <beyondblue.org.au>. For crisis support or suicide prevention, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

* Name changed for privacy purposes