Read our report about the success of The Hub. The Hub was developed and implemented by BANC, and funded through the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund.
Scroll down the page to browse our services. For location, contacts, and opening hours, click HERE.
Blackheath Cares
Blackheath Cares is a volunteer service that provides practical and social help for people who are less mobile or who need a hand during difficult times such as illness or hospitalisation. Our lovely volunteers can do everything from driving you to the shops to pet-minding, occasional help with cleaning and gardening (not ongoing), or simply dropping in now and then for a cuppa and a chat. To apply for either service fill out this short form. To volunteer, click here.
Senior’s Bus Trips
BANC proudly offers, through Belong Blue Mountains, a fortnightly minibus trip!
We have spaces on the minibus for interested people who have a My Aged Care package (we can help you access this package as well). Each person contributes $15 per trip and they pay for their own lunch and any entry fees and other costs that may be involved.
Places we have visited previously include Palm Beach, Berowra Waters, Oberon, Bathurst and Watson’s Bay, Mountain Bells Café, Wildwood Gardens, and Bilpin fruit bowl.
Please contact Marg or Jade at BANC for more information 4787 7770
Office services
Drop into the Neighbourhood Centre on Gardiner Crescent during opening hours to use our WIFI free of cost.
Help with food and utility bills
When money is tight, or you’re facing difficulties like illness or the effects of a natural disaster your Neighbourhood Centre can lend a hand. We have a food pantry that you can access once a week, and vouchers for food, firewood, and petrol. We’re also able to provide vouchers to pay for gas, electricity, and Sydney Water bills if you are eligible for these. To access these services or to donate food and other items, click here.
No Interest Loans
The No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS) helps people who are on a low income to buy new items such as white goods, TVs, mobile phones, computers, medical equipment, vet bills, medical bills, furniture, CTP insurance, car repairs, and education/training of up to $2000 in value. Users repay the loan, usually over a year. Please call 6331 2010 to make a booking.
Free Computer Help
Everyone needs smartphone and computer skills these days.
CYBER_SHED education sessions can show you how to use your mobile phone, tablet, or laptop in a way that meets the individual needs of each student. We focus on students over 50, but all ages are welcome. Classes are one-to-one and cover anything online, web-based, mobile device & app-related. The first four one-hour classes are free of charge. Enquire HERE
Free Community Events & Workshops
At BANC we believe a successful community is one that supports the social, cultural, and creative life of its people. Join the fun and learning by taking part! Free activities include everything from environmental workshops to art therapy, fire safety seminars, and fun events like our monthly free pizza night. Subscribe to our fortnightly event calendar (newsletter), find out what’s on, or book for an event HERE.
Tax help
If you earn less than $60,000 a year, you may be eligible for free help from our team of ATO-trained and accredited volunteers. They can lodge your return or complete your non-lodgement advice and can also claim a refund of franking credits. Appointments are only available from the beginning of August to the end of October each year. To learn whether you qualify for the service and the documents you will need, please fill out this short form.