Bayside Community Information and Support Service (BayCISS) has undergone an incredible renovation!
Channel 9’s The Block visited BayCISS for a renovation challenge in which they spent five days transforming the Hampton East site.
BayCISS is a not-for-profit charity which aims to help community members during times of need including emergency and crisis. In recent months the number of community members seeking support has increased significantly.
BayCISS Executive Officer Rose Paduano said community members are benefitting from the upgraded facilities.
“We feel very special. It’s really nice, we’ve got a really lovely new kitchen and new carpet. Our interview spaces had removable walls which were not suitable at all for having confidential discussions with clients. Now we have proper walls which have been painted and rooms that are fully furnished,” said Rose.
“It’s a huge step up in terms of how calm it is and how nice it is for people to walk into.”
Community members who visit BayCISS can get information, advice, referral and practical supports in conjunction with medium to long-term supports depending on need.
These services are vital to protecting our most vulnerable residents, and Rose said staff and volunteers are finding it easier to work at the improved facility.
“It’s a much-improved workspace, not just for clients to come into, but also for volunteers. We have a huge volunteer program.
“When we’ve got people coming in to donate their time, it makes a huge difference to say, here’s a nice spot for you to sit and talk to a client confidentially, and just to do the work that they’re coming in to do.”
Council provides BayCISS with an annual major grant to support its operations.
You can donate to help BayCISS deliver vital services for our most vulnerable residents by clicking here.
