Thieves target Melbourne’s Asylum Seeker Resource Centre twice in two days

·

The founder and chief executive of a Melbourne charity supporting asylum seekers has made a tearful appeal after the organisation was targeted by thieves for the second time in just a few days.

Kon Karapanagiotidis, who runs the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC), revealed that the charity’s Footscray site had been broken into twice within 48 hours, causing significant distress and disruption. He shared the news in an emotional video posted to X on Wednesday.

“I’ve been here since 4am this morning, we’ve had doors kicked in, glass broken,” Karapanagiotidis said in the video. “Over these two days, we’ve had laptops stolen, nappies, sleeping bags, thousands of dollars worth of pre-paid Myki cards, and emergency packs taken. The place has been turned upside down.”

Since its founding in 2001, the ASRC has been a vital lifeline for asylum seekers, providing food, assistance with refugee status applications, and support for employment. Karapanagiotidis noted that in the months leading up to Christmas, demand for the charity’s foodbank services had surged by 50%.

Photo: 9News.

The burglaries are expected to cost the charity tens of thousands of dollars, not only in stolen goods but also in repairs and the necessary security upgrades.

“At the end of the day, we’re just going to have to dive into our savings,” he said. “We can’t afford to stay closed, we have over 7,000 people relying on us.”

The ASRC has provided CCTV footage to the police, who are investigating the break-ins. Despite the emotional toll, Karapanagiotidis expressed compassion for those responsible.

“I know there are so many Australians doing it tough right now with this cost of living crisis,” he said. “I’m trying to remain compassionate. But who robs a charity? Especially twice?”

The impact of the thefts, Karapanagiotidis said, was deeply painful. “They’ve taken from the mouths of families—that’s what makes it so painful.”

The ASRC is now appealing for donations to help recover from the losses, with Karapanagiotidis urging anyone who can to contribute via the charity’s website or by dropping off food at their donation locations.

Source: 9News.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Kalymnian Brotherhood of Darwin threatens legal action over octopus dispute

The Kalymnian Brotherhood of Darwin is threatening legal action against the NT Government following a food safety dispute over octopus.

‘Want to honour legacy’: Con Kalamaras on Estudiantina’s soulful tribute to Greek music icons

In the lead-up to the show, The Greek Herald spoke with Estudiantina member and organiser Con Kalamaras about what to expect.

Meet the Greek sisters behind Adora: A 30-year legacy of handmade chocolate and heart

If you’re looking for a new spot in Sydney to satisfy your sweet cravings, Adora Handmade Chocolates is the place to be.

Young artists shine in ‘First Light’ exhibition at opening of That Art Place in Carlton

More than 65 young artists from the St George area in Sydney had their creative moment in the spotlight on Saturday, July 12.

Peter Tsolakides leads Australia’s first cryonics facility amid scientific doubts

Peter Tsolakides, founder of Southern Cryonics, is leading Australia's venture into cryonic preservation with a facility near Holbrook, NSW.

You May Also Like

London mayor proposes ‘win-win’ sharing agreement for Parthenon Marbles

London's Mayor called on the British government and the British Museum to reach “win-win arrangement” with Greece over the Parthenon Marbles.

Greek government moves to cut state funding for far-right Spartiates party

Greek government has proposed an amendment to suspend state funding for the far-right Spartiates party due to alleged criminal affiliations.

Bank of Queensland CEO George Frazis shakes up executive team

BoQ CEO George Frazis says the leadership changes underscores the bank’s momentum following a "positive start" to the financial year.