Thieves have broken into storage space in Margate and stolen donations, including furniture, that had been destined to help people moving into new accommodation after living on the streets.
The storage facility is used by the council’s RISE (Rough sleeper Intervention, Support and Empowerment) team who work with those sleeping rough to help them access support services and find a home.
The thieves struck sometime between Saturday, January 4 and this morning (January 9) where they took items and damaged other goods.
In a message on social media the team put out a plea for some replacement goods.
They said: “Sadly our storage facility was broken into and we have lost and had items damaged (in case you see your things and wonder why they have not ended up with their intended recipients). Please do get in touch if anyone is able to donate old beds, TVs, unused mattresses and fridges as we are now short and have a few move ins planned this week.”
RISE members also work on the Thanet Winter Shelter which runs from November until the end of March to offer beds, meals, showers, company and services to the isle’s homeless. The scheme, now in its fourth year, is free to anyone who needs to access it via referrals from RISE.
Since last November the shelter has hosted an average of 14 guests per night; and 11 people have been moved from the shelter into supported accommodation, private rental or shared accommodation.
A Kent Police spokesperson said: “Kent Police is investigating a report of a premises in Margate being burgled between midnight on January 4 and 11am on January 9.
“At present no suspects have been identified and enquiries to establish the full circumstances are ongoing.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/5138/20.
Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or using the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers