Social distancing rules and tightening of government restrictions have impacted the way Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre operates, but manager Shirley Kent said the centre will continue to support locals who need help.

"We have closed the centre to the public to restrict face-to-face contact, but for certain emergencies and food relief we will open our doors," Shirley said.

"We are still offering food packages for people who aren't able to secure food."

Although food security is an issue for a number of people in the community, Shirley said the biggest impact of the coronavirus pandemic is the social isolation.

"A lot of people are used to coming in and having a coffee and a conversation but aren't able to at the moment because of the virus," Shirley said.

"Some people have become homeless and now aren't able to come here to talk with someone face-to-face.

"The centre is offering over the phone help but some people in the community don't have access to a phone which can make it hard."

The Neighbourhood Centre is also working with other agencies to provide a food delivery service.

"At the moment we're referring people to other agencies through the phone including mental health services, we are also calling people to check in with them to make sure they're doing ok. For people who need food, we are looking at organising a delivery service," Shirley said.

"This time can be very difficult for people with mental health issues and the homeless, the connections they have is important and during this time they can feel very isolated and alone.

"We will continue to provide as much support to the vulnerable people in the community as we can."

For more information about the centre, visit http://www.kempseync.org.au/

To contact the centre directly, call 6562 8300.

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