Left: Table and chairs were overturned and plates were smashed in the main hall.By Nathan Johnston
THE headquarters of Dandenongbased charity organisation Cornerstone were ransacked in an attack on Saturday.
The organisation, which provides food and shelter for homeless people throughout the cities of Greater Dandenong and Casey, was forced to close its Saturday night program after the incident.
Police apprehended a man at the building, on the corner of Walker and Mason Streets, 20 minutes after the alarms sounded.
CEO of Cornerstone Pastor Max Walker said the organisation was assessing the damage.
Using a piece of concrete and a tree stake, the man smashed his way into the building through the front door.
Mr Walker said it appeared a refrigerator and two cooking stoves were destroyed, plates and dishes were smashed, tables and chairs were upended and the pool table tipped on its side.
“Prompt action by the police responding to the alarm system and calls from an observant passerby prevented worse damage occurring,” Mr Walker said.
He said the apprehended man was believed to be mentally ill and homeless.
A police spokesperson said she expected no charges would be laid.
Mr Walker said the incident highlighted the need for services such as Cornerstone.
“What happened again enforces the continued need for proper facilities in the community to provide for those suffering from mental illness,” he said.
“There is need for increased funding to assist those who are fringe dwellers, homeless and mentally ill in our community. Despite this setback, Cornerstone will continue to provide meals and minister in this area. Cornerstone will be open for business this week.”
Mr Walker said a working bee would be held to clean up the mess to ensure all programs were running as soon as possible.
Cornerstone Contact Centre in Dandenong provides services to the fringedwellers in the Cities of Greater Dandenong and Casey.
The transdenominational faith mission provides ministry to the homeless, the unemployed, the addicted and the lonely in Dandenong.
Mr Walker and his wife Alison have ministered in this area for the past 11 years.
“Cornerstone uses all the facilities available from the local community liaising with councillors, politicians and community leaders on a regular basis,” Mr Walker said.
