Cornerstone of our community
Cornerstone Contact Centre is one of those unsung organisations which quietly goes about helping those most in need in our community, all on the “smell of an oily rag”, as the chairman wrote in a recent report.
Cornerstone is a drop-in centre right in the heart of Dandenong. It opens its doors several times a week, welcoming the homeless and needy with a free meal and hot drink.
The patient, dedicated staff also provide counselling and a referral service for those needing food parcels, accommodation or drug and gambling help.
I am always interested when Cornerstone’s annual report lands in my letterbox. I visited Cornerstone, whch operates out of the old Church of Christ building on the corner of Mason and Walker streets, many times during my years reporting for the Journal.
I was always made feel welcome and understand why people find it a safe haven in times of need.
Chairman Grant Renkema wrote in Cornerstone’s 2014 annual report that the organisation offers “meals, support, services and friendship that organisations with budgets 10 times our size do not offer”.
“Cornerstone is a tapestry of people – it offers an amazing bang for buck.”
Last year the fantastic kitchen team served more than 9000 free meals, helped immeasurably by the purchase of a new stove.
However, some food sadly had to be discarded when the freezers switched off. One of the main aims for the year ahead is raising money for a freezer room and a cool room, which will save money on electricity as well as time spent ferrying food from the back storeroom to the kitchen.
Cornerstone co-ordinator Don Cameron said there were some exciting developments in store over the next 12 months including a possible mental health GROW program, a mothers’ group, semi-regular programs run by “men from very friendly Christian biker groups” and a program for primary school students on Saturday mornings.
Anyone who wants to help can contact Pastor Don on 9794 5654.
CANCER CAUSE
My daughter Melvina passed away after a long battle with cancer, so I am always touched by the stories of those who have overcome the odds and beaten this insidious disease.
One such inspiration is Springvale South’s Chris Kendall.
Chris is holding a Biggest Morning Tea at Resurrection Primary School, Keysborough, on Sunday 25 May.
She and her “chemo buddy” Sophie are keen to raise as much money as they can to continue the fight against cancer.
Chris, who was battling breast cancer, formed a firm friendship with Sophie, who had blood and stomach cancer, while they were both undergoing gruelling chemotherapy treatment.
“We met in chemo treatment four years ago, so we’re now giving back,” explained Chris.
“We’re girls with a passion and this year we’ve really put a lot of hard work into this event.”
Last year the dynamic duo raised $4500 and are hoping for even more this time.
Anyone wanting to attend the fund-raiser can contact Chris on 9547 7254. Guests are asked to pay $10 and bring a plate of food.
