Worse still, it was not the first, but the third in just 10 months for Pay It Forward.

Most people know this Glenroi-based not-for-profit started in a garage, receiving donations of clothing, food and even furniture to help those less fortunate.

Momentum grew and before long, it was not uncommon to see Pay It Forward request certain items in particular demand. 

It even expanded into loaning garden maintenance equipment to help public housing tenants keep their properties in good working order.

Eventually the operation was able to move out of the garage into rented premises and stories continued to emerge of business owners who had donated anything from surplus bread to car batteries to keep the truck running. 

That’s not including staffrooms pulling together to create hampers and care packages.

The charity has always been lean in its operations, relying on volunteer labour. 

But that hasn’t stopped it from putting itself forward as an approved Work for the Dole organisation and a participant in timebanking, where people can volunteer and earn credits to trade for other services. 

So to see an organisation like this affected in such a big way is nothing short of disappointing.

It’s a huge emotional blow for the people behind Pay It Forward.

While it could be argued that whoever committed this low act did not take money from the charity, rather the people the charity needed to help, it is poor thanks for the amount of time and dedication invested in creating that conduit between donors and recipients.

What’s more, if this person had needed genuine help, they need only have asked.  

It’s times like this where a little extra is called for – when Pay It Forward started working on its crisis accommodation facility, people donated furniture, kitchens and trade labour to get it all done. 

With security and repairs to the community shed expected to cost into the thousands of dollars, similar offerings would surely be welcome. 

We never know whether one day it might be us needing a hand and it’s our responsibility to ensure that safety net is there. 

To donate call 5353 1163 or visit the shed at 83 Glenroi Avenue.