MEMBERS of local Lions clubs continue their valued community work in many spheres with an ongoing commitment, in particular, to youth.
When I turned back the pages of time, to a copy of the Journal from May 7, 2001 I had filed away, it came as no surprise to read how the Lions Luncheon Club of Dandenong presented a cheque for $15,000 to Ken Morgan, founder of Kids Under Cover.
The presentation was part of the club’s 25th birthday celebrations and at that time, Kids Under Cover had built 82 houses and bungalows in the backyards of properties of families who were caring for the young people.
The prices of the bungalows varied from $14,000 to $18,000.
In 2001, the Lions had also raised half the building price of a second bungalow.
Cornerstone back in full swing
In his first newsletter for 2013, Pastor Don Cameron — co-ordinator of the Cornerstone Centre, Dandenong — reported that all of the centre’s regular volunteers were back for a new year and all programs were running smoothly.
He said that during January the centre’s helpers were grateful and humbled by support from the community, as Cornerstone served thousands of free meals each year to the hungry.
They also provide stimulating entertainment and thought-provoking programs for the lonely.
Thanking local supporters, Mr Cameron said the bin company worked out means of a much cheaper contract for Cornerstone’s waste collection, money was received from the City of Greater Dandenong’s staff giving donations, and after some lateral thinking, they also managed to cut down on phone expenses.
“We hope to receive much needed support to replace our ageing ovens and repair the lights in our basketball hall this year.”
Mr Cameron said Cornerstone closed down for a few days in January and a working bee was held to carry out a few of the urgent jobs that needed doing.
He said that last year hundreds of volunteers helped at the centre for varied periods of time then moved on to bigger and better things and although Cornerstone was sad to see them go, each new volunteer brought with them their own set of skills, abilities, enthusiasm and zeal.
“I especially love hearing from people who just want to come in and chat with our ‘regulars’ over a cup of coffee, or join in a game of snooker,” he said.
Mr Cameron had a particular word of praise for volunteers who have had Centrelink payments cut in accordance with new government laws.
“We wish to help everyone but I especially feel for those who are working hard at Cornerstone to help others, and also are struggling to make ends meet themselves,” he said.
The Cornerstone Centre operates from the former Church of Christ buildings at the corner of Robinson and Walker streets, Dandenong.
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