New research from the University of Wollongong reveals concerning levels of food insecurity for families across the Illawarra Shoalhaven region (see link below).  On this episode Nicky speaks with Danna Nelse, Manager of the Albion Park & Albion Park Rail  Neighbourhood Centres, who is on the front line of seeing the impacts of food insecurity on families and individuals. A situation which she says is very real and only getting worse.  The Neighbourhood Centres which she manage have gone from being a place to connect and an information and referral service to now having to pivot into practical crisis supports, food, clothing, nappies, helping people pay bills, feeding kids and other care and crisis supports for people in need.

Danna also discusses the impacts on providers of what she calls the “Not for Profit Starvation Cycle” that sees funding not keeping pace with inflation and cost of living for community services, meaning providers need to do more with less.  As she explains, Neighbourhood Centres are relying on donations and support from a community under pressure and from other NFP’s who are also affected creating a challenging cycle.  

However it’s clear that Neighbourhood Centres, with their strong connections to the community are well placed to assist, and Danna gives practical ideas of how people can help and make a difference from donations, by volunteering or just giving a helping hand to someone in need.  Danna speaks to the importance of community connections, relationships and the many people that have mentored and supported her along the way.

Link to the Illawarra Shoalhaven Food Survey from UOW: 2025 | Why community centres are the unsung heroes in the fight against hunger - University of Wollongong – UOW