HORSHAM Community House is now officially Horsham Neighbourhood House (HNH), along with a fresh faced manager and returned Wimmera native.
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Charlie Helyar grew up in Rainbow and previously worked as in insurance before deciding to make a tree change back to Horsham and a new job in a new field.
"It's somewhat of a homecoming for me," he said.
"I began on May 10. The job has been really exciting and I look forward to the challenges of managing the house and seeing what I can bring for the community."
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Mr Helyar has been a president of a Neighbour House in the past and plenty of experience with Neighbourhood Houses.
Mr Helyar said HNH was already receiving excellent feed back having been shut for many months over 2020 and lockdown.
"We're signing people up for the Victorian Government Power Saving Bonus, where people can receive $250 from the government if they're eligible," he said.
Another support offered through Neighbourhood House Victoria is a no interest loan of up to $1500. Loans can be used for household items, car repairs and registration, medical and dental, technology, furniture or education
"Generally people are on a concession card and receiving a Centrelink benefit as well, we refer them to onto supports to help with applying."
Mr Helyar said other groups like a walking group and Friday afternoon crafts have started up, with more community projects to come that are open to all.
He said it has been a whirlwind few months.
"People have been great, I've had a lot of traction of people coming through the house." Mr Helyar said.
"The programs are bringing people to the house."
Inclusivity is a huge part of a Neighbourhood House.
"The house is all about inclusivity and acceptance of all people," Mr Helyar said.
"Anybody is welcome to call and be a part of our programs."
The HNH can be used for programs, Wimmera Pride Project did their mental health first aid training through Wimmera Primary Care Partnership at the House.
"If people want to hire a room, they can contact me and I can assist," Mr Helyar
"If they want to know about your programs, contact me, come see me at the house and I'm more than happy to help as much as I can."
One of the biggest challenges has been coming back to network in Horsham, Mr Helyar said.
"Horsham is a more inclusive town now, it's really grown as a town," he said.
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"It's diversified into a lot of great new areas but maintained its rural, regional appeal."
He also said meeting people has been one of the best things so far in his role, despite growing up nearby.
"It's meeting the locals and seeing what they want for the house," Mr Helyar said.
The HNH was shut since March 2020 before Mr Heylar was hired as house manager.
"The community Neighbourhood House is a lighthouse for the community," he said.
"It's a place where people can come and feel safe and welcome. They can be a part of something and gain some skills."
The house is open Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm at 13 Robin street in Horsham.
Contact Horsham Neighbourhood House and manager Charlie Helyar on 5382 5352.
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