Cash boost for new look

By Tania Martin
EMERALD Community House is set for a face-lift after receiving $50,000 in State Government funding.
Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato announced the funding last week and said that it was part of the first round of a $12.4 million four-year State Government effort to improve neighbourhood house infrastructure.
This latest round of funding has brought the Emerald Community House a step closer to starting its $120,000 refurbishment project which has been jointly funded by the Shire of Cardinia.
Ms Lobato said this latest funding boost would enable the office at Emerald Community House to be modernised and create street access and ramp, which will allow people with disabilities to access the facility.
“Emerald Community House has been a vital part of the local community for 28 years, but it now needs to be upgraded and it is great that this grant will enable that to happen,” she said.
House coordinator Chris Easdown said the funding would go towards upgrading the front office, developing a reception administration area, constructing a ramp and front door access, and building a new store room at the back of the hall.
Ms Easdown said the funding would help give the house a much-needed face-lift.
She said one of the problems many people have with the house is that they have a hard time locating the front door, which is tucked around the side of the house.
“This funding will allow us to put in a front door which will provide direct access to the community house from the street,” she said.
Ms Lobato said neighbourhood houses give people a chance to develop new skills, meet new people and pursue new recreational opportunities in their local community.
She said neighbourhood houses connect people with their communities, offering the opportunity to meet people in the local area and learn new skills.
“And the Emerald Community House has been a local leader in doing just that,” she said.