Shayne’s physical and mental disabilities mean that he is unable to work. While he receives a disability pension, and lives with his parents, he finds that he is often unable to keep up with expenses.

“Shopping now is so expensive. The bills for the house too, even though we share the cost, the rises in electricity, gas, insurance, everything. There is not much left out of the pensions after bills are paid, once you get a few necessities at the supermarket”, he said.

Like many who are experiencing hardship in the Wagga Wagga region, Shayne regularly visits the Ashmont Community Resource Centre—one of Anglicare’s community hubs. Run in partnership with the Ashmont Anglican Parish, the centre offers emergency food relief, parenting support, play groups, community lunches, financial support, and cooking, crafting and gardening activities—all in one location.