WHETHER it's someone who needs internet access, or someone who just needs a person to chat to, the Salvation Army is ready to help.
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The Bathurst branch recently opened a new drop-in service called Salvos Connect, which is operating beside the family store at 39 Keppel Street.
Lieutenant Kate Cathcart said the service had been in the pipeline for some time and the Salvos were pleased to finally welcome people through the doors.
"About two years ago there was the idea and the talk about it, and then over last year Matt (Robinson) was able to work and get some funding for it to help set it up," she said.
"It took us a while, but we finally got here, with the right funding and help from a Salvos perspective as well."
Salvos Connect offers basic services such as conversation and a warm place to hang out, but staff can also help set up emergency relief, support with electricity bills, referrals to other agencies where needed and provide access to computers, which can be used to help with job searching or for entertainment.
Lt Cathcart said one person came in and spent several hours playing chess on the computer.
At the moment there is no limit on how long someone can use a computer for, but if the service grows this may be revisited to ensure that everyone gets a chance to use them.
Staff at Salvos Connect can also help with advocacy on someone's behalf.
The service opened about a month ago and it already has a few regular faces.
"So far, we've had a good response," Lt Cathcart said.
"We've had some people who really just come in for coffee and a chat, which is good, and as time goes on we want to create a bit of community around it."
The space at the drop-in centre includes lounges, two computers with internet access, basic tea and coffee making facilities, games and children's toys.
People can visit anytime between 10am and 1pm, Monday to Friday.
Mr Robinson will generally facilitate the service, but from time to time other local Salvation Army volunteers will be around to provide assistance.
Anyone who would like to find out more about what the service offers can call 0459 931 116.