Go west

I have said many times that I am a westie, and I have no shame admitting it.
Working in the western Sydney area has given me an excellent opportunity to meet lots of new people, and contribute to the area that I grew up in.
With World AIDS Day just past, I thought I would mention two of the services that have been in western Sydney for many years.
The Western Suburbs Haven (located in Blacktown) is a retreat for people living with HIV/AIDS in western Sydney. The Haven provides many services like discounted groceries, massage and respite accommodation. However, what they are most famous for is probably their Friday lunches.
This is an important service for many HIV-positive people living in western Sydney. It is a place where they can relax, get a good meal and the opportunity to get out of the house and talk to others.
With friendly staff and excellent volunteers they make you feel right at home.
PLWHA Blue Mountains (located at Katoomba) is much smaller, but no less important.
Every Wednesday for the past few years they have provided people living with HIV/AIDS in the Blue Mountains a place to have lunch, as well as the social element that all people need.
It’s the dawn of a new era for them, as they pack the moving boxes and duct tape the lids and prepare to move to their new home in the same area.
Stay tuned for information about the re-launch of their service.
I have included the numbers below so you can call and find out the opening times for each service, and when it’s best to call in.
The Haven 02 9672 3600
PLWHA Blue Mountains 02 4782 2119
Well, ’tis the season to be jolly so I hope you all have a great Christmas, and I wish everyone a Happy New Year.
If you want any information about groups, services, organisations or community events taking place in western Sydney, you can contact Matt Vaughan at ACON on 9206 2000.
Matt Vaughan is the Community Development and Liaison Officer for the ACON Western Sydney Community Development Team.
E: [email protected]