"It has made life easier," she says. "When I come [to Australia from Sudan] I don't know anything, but now I am learning the language. And he [Alfred] needs to play with other children."

Co-ordinator Elleni Beshe says the centre, at 30 Pickett Street, is a hub for Sudanese living in the area.

"It feels like their home. The staff are Sudanese, the clients are Sudanese, it is their own way of doing things. It is more traditional, they speak their language."

The centre, which is funded by the Anglican Parish, recently received additional support from the Brotherhood of St Laurence.

Father Chaplain Soma said having their own space was essential to the community, especially new arrivals who had recently suffered the trauma of leaving their homeland. "They can come to meet each other, interact and get support. Some come here with their problems and share stories of what they have gone through. Without talking, they end up isolated and depressed."

For several years the centre has run a child-minding service for mothers who take English classes at the centre.

"A lot of the women don't speak English and have never even gone to school. Many can't afford regular child care," Ms Beshe said.

The centre is now changing its child-minding service to a registered playgroup. There will be places for more than 20 children in the program.

Parents will take turns helping supervise the playgroup and will also be informed about parenting and child health and wellbeing.

The centre is seeking donations of quality toys, play equipment and supplies.

Leading Senior Sergeant Craig Spicer, community liaison officer with Footscray police, has joined the cause and has appealed to the community to support the centre. "Open your hearts. If you have things you were going to throw away that others can use, please donate it. This is such a hidden secret in Footscray."