Fresh face for centre of care

CORNERSTONE Contact Centre is looking sharp following a makeover last month, but still needs a few improvements and some help to make them happen.
The faith mission is run in the heart of downtown Dandenong and combines welfare assistance with drop-in social activities.
Co-ordinator Don Cameron said the former church on the corner of Mason and Walker streets had provided meals and a safe haven for the area’s disadvantaged for more than 20 years.
The building’s owned by the Rado family, which allows Cornerstone to use the property free of charge.
The group receives donations and support from local businesses, Rotary and Lions clubs, church groups, community members, VCAL students and more.
“We hope to continue receiving much-needed support to replace our aging ovens and repair the lights in out basketball hall this year,” Mr Cameron said.
He said Cornerstone was humbled but the community support it received in January.
“The local bin company worked out a way of much cheaper contract for our waste collection, we received money from the City of Greater Dandenong’s staff giving donations, and after some lateral thinking we managed to cut down our phone expenses as well,” he said.
“As the programs start up for the year, it has been pleasing to get many emails and some phone calls from people wanting to donate their time to help out at Cornerstone.
“Each new person who arrives brings their own set of skills and abilities or at least zeal and enthusiasm that can be pointed in the right direction to help Cornerstone operate.
“I especially love hearing from people who just want to come in and chat with our regulars over a coffee or join in a game of snooker.”
Mr Cameron said that while the building was empty during weekdays in January, the Cornerstone regulars went to work painting the floors, doors, walls “and whatever else got near their paintbrushes”.
The team moved more than 50 chairs outside to give them a thorough wash with hot soapy water.
“And it was very pleasing to see the floor return to its former glory thanks to a team of hard-working people and a lot of special floor varnish bought for the occasion,” Mr Cameron said.
“It’s an old building but it’s home to some great memories and a place where many good things will happen this year.”