It is exciting to report new developments at the top and bottom of Central House, the nine-story building behind Collin Street Baptist Church (CSBC).  Adding to years of hospitality to people experiencing disadvantage, CSBC is now in partnership with Baptcare to offer housing on level 9 for asylum seekers at risk of homelessness.  Through this new partnership, CSBC is providing safe and affordable housing along with welcome and belonging — a chance for residents to volunteer at the Verandah Cafe

The basement floor of Central House, the Green Room, is now a productive indoor garden space with plants, fish and worms.  The recently formed neighbourhood enterprise, Planted Places, is committed to addressing social isolation by cultivating relationships with people, plants and place, with a particular focus on asylum seekers and refugees.  Through the work of demonstration and training in plant propagation and aquaponics, level one is now a space for learning, belonging and growing.