Over the past two years Camden Haven Community at 3 has helped numerous people connect and reconnect with society. 

Karen is a volunteer with the group and said Christmas can be a hard time for people who suffer from financial difficulty or those who are lonely. 

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Karen decided to connect with members of the group, after she saw a story in the Camden Haven Courier. 

“I was new to the area and wanted to meet people,” she said. 

“I went to one of their barbecues on a Wednesday and discovered that everyone was very welcoming and friendly.” 

Karen said the group offers support and a safe environment for people in need. 

Karen knows what it’s like to be homeless and lonely. She shares her experiences with others because they can relate to it. 

“It can be a pretty scary time, finding safety and security can be difficult,” she said. 

The only time Karen slept soundly is when she travelled on a train from Sydney to Newcastle. 

Karen said she is now happy and safe in the Camden Haven. 

Sandy Sparkes lives at the Brigadoon Holiday Park and the lunch was the first time she had been to one of the group’s events. 

“It’s a great way to connect with other people,” she said. 

People are invited to a Christmas lunch at the North Haven Baths, opposite North Haven shops on December 25. 

Graham Lee said people are invited to bring a plate of food to share from 1pm. 

For more information call Graham on 0413 480 999.