While the demographics and situation of the needy have changed over the years, the Broadmeadows Mission and its army of volunteers have always been there to lend a hand.

Last week a celebration of the anniversary, combined with an event to mark the joining of the UnitingCare missions in Sunshine and Broadmeadows, was held in Sunshine.

At the celebration, UnitingCare chief executive officer Phil Conrick said: "Early on in Broadmeadows, [councils and governments] were only focused on the planning for the housing commissions, it was more about kerbs and gutters and there was no focus on social infrastructure.

"I suspect the first minister to serve there either had to establish something good or leave. He had a massive response of people beating down his door with social problems."

He said the Broadmeadows Mission provided a range of services.

"Such as food and emergency relief, family counselling

and groups to help support the lonely - in essence we

support those people who fall through the cracks." UnitingCare chairperson Meriel O'Sullivan said the nature of need in Broadmeadows was changing.

"People who usually wouldn't have required assistance, those who are working and able to meet their mortgage repayment - now their income is not enough to keep up with their mortgage, plus the increase in bills and other things."

Ms O'Sullivan said the mission was also about providing people with a social outlet.

"It is for people who are isolated and not coping. They can come along and meet with others and really avoid complete loneliness."