This money will be used to fund a basic adult literacy program for all people of all ages.

The aim of the program is to not only give participants the ability to complete forms and read and understand things like food labels and warning signs, but also to improve and enrich their lives.

It is hoped the ability to read for themselves or to their children or grandchildren will give participants in the program the confidence to take the next step to TAFE or to employment.

Karin Thurston said the Neighbourhood Centre identified a need for a program such as this when its staff realised that a number of their clients were having trouble filling out application forms for assistance under the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs’ (FAHCSIA) Emergency Relief program.

Ms Thurston said the literacy program would differ to those offered by TAFE by being tailored to meet the individual needs of the participants.

“TAFE can be very daunting if you don’t have a little bit of experience under your belt,” Ms Thurston continued.

“We believe it is very important that the program be tailored to address the participants’ level of literacy, while ensuring it is pitched to adults so they don’t feel embarrassed or inferior.”

Ms Thurston said the centre had received a very positive response so far but they were still calling for interested people to see the Neighbourhood Centre’s staff about participating in the program, which is set to commence in July.

Lorraine Crawford, a former teacher, will run the program with the assistance of two other people.

Ms Thurston said if the need arose, the Neighbourhood Centre would find more people to help run the program.

Ms Thurston said she expected the program to open a lot of doors for the people who decide to participate in it.

“I think it will be good for the town,” she concluded.