Mossman Support Services calls for urgent community funding to secure new facility

INADEQUATE FACILITIES

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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Mossman Support Services urgently seeks community support to acquire 18 Mill Street due to inadequate facilities and increased demands after recent natural disasters. Picture: Mossman Support Services

Mossman Support Services, a key not-for-profit for Douglas Shire residents, is seeking community support to acquire a new facility as their current space has become inadequate amidst growing demands for support.

The recent cyclone and flooding events have left two of Mossman Support Services’ buildings inoperable, resulting in the displacement of eight staff members and putting additional strain on the remaining facilities and programs. 

The organisation, which offers a wide range of disability, youth, family and community services, has been adamant in keeping up with the growing needs of the area and the complexities of those needs.

Manager at Mossman Support Services, Heather Taylor, explained that their current premises on 20 Mill Street, already operating at overcapacity, is struggling with increasing demands and diverse client needs.

“This not only limits our ability to expand our programs but also poses safety risks for our staff,” she said.

Despite two years of efforts to secure additional land or premises, progress has been unsuccessful. Acquiring an identified property, adjacent to their current building, now represents a critical opportunity for Mossman Support Services.

“The extra building will allow for the immediate relocation of critical services, alleviate overcrowding, and restore programs that are currently on hold,” Ms Taylor said.

The impending closure of the Mossman mill, along with the resulting economic and mental health challenges, further intensifies the need for a new facility.

“Farmers are losing their livelihoods, and local businesses are estimating they may close within the next 12-18 months,” Ms Taylor said.

“This will significantly impact the town and lead to increased mental health issues, with very limited support services available.”

Mossman Support Services is developing new programs and looking at counselling, support groups, and financial aid but needs adequate premises to effectively implement them. The extra building would enable the organisation to better serve the community and address the pressing needs resulting from the recent crises.

As a public benevolent institution charity registered with ACNC, Mossman Support Services are a deductible gift recipient endorsed as a tax exempt charity. All donations over $2.00 are fully tax deductable.

For more information or to make a donation contact Heather Taylor at [email protected] or 40982836.

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