The charitable spirit of a Habitat for Humanity construction project was dampened by theft; almost $9,000 worth of tools were stolen from its site on Sunderland Road in Worcester. Both WHDH and WCVB report that the crime occurred on the night of December 5, bringing the nonprofit's building efforts to a temporary halt. The Habitat for Humanity MetroWest/Greater Worcester chapter, discovered with cut padlocks and cast aside like afterthoughts, was what remained of the security for the two trailers from which the tools were stolen.
Details provided by WCVB reveal a roster of the missing items, including essential saws, drills, and nail guns, alongside a toolbox containing assorted driver bits. Over a dozen batteries necessary for powering these tools were also stolen. Debby Huegel, vice president of philanthropy for the chapter, expressed the group's dismay at the theft in an email, lamenting that such acts "deter us from our mission to build homes, communities, and hope for local families and veterans."
As the Worcester Police Department investigates the burglary, the nonprofit is reaching out for community support. Donations to replace the stolen equipment are being solicited, with Habitat for Humanity assuring that any contribution will be welcomed with gratitude. Habitat for Humanity's MetroWest/Greater Worcester encourages those looking to make monetary donations to visit their website and click the prominent orange "DONATE" button. For individuals willing to donate tools directly, they may contact [email protected].
Despite the setback, Habitat for Humanity endures in its mission, rallying the community to aid in restoring the tools that will continue the building of not just homes but futures. "Any donation is appreciated to help us continue to build affordable homes for local families!" as told to WHDH.
