If you are far from friends and family, it is even more important.

For the past few years, the Global Care Multicultural Ladies group has met regularly for craft, cooking, sewing and coffee. They recently held a baby shower for Famela Mitchell of Muswellbrook, originally from the Philippines.

“The aim of the group is to integrate ladies from other cultures into our community and in so doing learn about the various countries they have come from,” co-ordinator Heather Boyton of Muswellbrook said.

“Three years ago, a lady from India who spoke virtually no English moved in close to us so I made contact. That’s how the group started.

“We have women who come from all over the globe. At a recent coffee afternoon at Hunter Belle cafe there was a woman from Texas,” Mrs Boyton said.

“We also make contact with people who may be isolated in their own homes when the husband has come here to work. We let them know they are not alone.”

A dinner will be held at the Muswellbrook Senior Citizens Hall on February 17 from 6pm. The meal will be prepared by award-winning chef Monique Goodworth, formerly of Aberdeen. All are welcome.

The cost is $15 and bookings should be made with Heather Boyton on 6543 1544 or 0438 405 925 by February 8.