ACTIONS speak louder than words for Billy Flicker.

From blowing leaves off the skate park to helping clean businesses, this is Billy's way of thanking the Woopi community for its support in what was a very dark time for the long-time local.

In late April, Billy's van in which he lived was destroyed in an arson attack at Woolgoolga Lake.

Billy was with friend Lisa Nichols when he heard the devastating news.

"One of his mates had turned up on his bike with a photo of his car all burnt out, it was heartbreaking," Lisa said.

"To see Bill's face was just something I never want to see again because it was his home, everything he owned was in that van."

After putting Billy's story on Facebook, Lisa was inundated with phone calls asking how they could help.

"Everywhere I walked in the street, people kept stopping me and asking how he was and they really care for him," she said.

Initially the support was a little overwhelming for Billy, who is usually the one helping others.

Through Gofundme, Lisa and the community raised about $1600 to go towards a new van. Combined with a loan Billy took out, he purchased his new home about six weeks ago.

To have a van again was life-changing for Billy, who was temporarily living out of a small sedan he used most of his savings to buy.

"It was brilliant, I was a human again, I could sleep," he said.

The community also provided Billy with clothes, a sleeping bag, meals and even a facial.

But it was also the little things that made all the difference, with people lending an ear or a cuddle for Billy when he was feeling down.

One of Billy's friends from Brooms Head even drove to Woopi to donate to him.

"The town has really got together and supported me heaps. I've been really touched by it," Billy said.

Arson is a recent crime trend in the community according to Billy, who has been in the town for 20 years.

He says stronger penalties are needed to help stamp the crime out of the community.

"It's only a matter of time before someone is in a vehicle and doesn't get out," he said.

"It's a scary thought that people are willing to put a match to something after they steal it, go for a ride in it.

"It's just a value that we don't need."