WHEN all hope seems lost and debts overwhelm you to the point you can't see a way out - where do you turn?
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On Wednesday, the Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre will host its annual Hastings Community Connect Day from 10am on May 6 at Port Macquarie Racecourse.
There will be a range of community services personnel available in one convenient location offering information and supplies to anyone in need.
Two years ago Jody Mayes found herself in circumstances beyond her control.
She had left her husband and was in a bad financial situation.
"I went to the expo [Community Connect Day] and stopped at the CAP [Christians Against Poverty] stand," Ms Mayes said.
Mave Peebles introduced herself and asked if she could help.
"I told them my situation and they gave me the CAP information, but I was too overwhelmed and didn't want to deal with it."
A few month later she got in touch with Mave and her husband Allan.
"They sat down and did a financial plan, and I realised I couldn't pay off the $20,000 debt or I would be paying interest for the rest of my life." Ms Mayes said.
CAP advised her to declare bankruptcy and how to handle her limited income working in disability to ensure she could cover the necessary expenses in her life such as rent, car, groceries, medical and so on.
"They make you feel like you are not alone. All the people at CAP have been so nice and I have become friends with Mave and Allan."
Mrs Peebles said after they put together a budget for Jody they could see a difference in her straight away.
"We have seen her grow from being insecure and lacking confidence. She is out there looking for accommodation and has turned her life around. I'm really proud of her."
CAP financial specialists work in partnership with local churches, which in Port Macquarie is the C3 Church.
The church pays a monthly subscription in support of 25 families currently being assisted by CAP in the Hastings.
Once clients are back on their feet they can donate to CAP which is non-denominational and operates mostly with volunteers such as the Peebles.
Jody Mayes' story is just one of many with a great result from attending a Community Connect Day.
Everything on the day is provided free thanks to funding from Club Grants, and community services, volunteers and businesses.
"This is the fifth Community Connect Day in the Hastings and each year we are overwhelmed by the support and friendship that the day brings," said coordinator of the Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre, Julie Trowbridge.
Services available on the day include health, housing and accommodation, finance, employment and family support.
The Big Red Bus will offer a free lunch for attendees and Busways will provide free bus travel to the event.
Travel arrangements can be made at community service organisations including Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre, Centrelink, Interrelate and Hope Shop.