Roanoke, Virginia – Habitat-Roanoke has regretfully reported a series of unfortunate events of vandalism and theft over the past 18 months. The acts have inflicted substantial financial strain on the organization, amounting to tens of thousands of dollars in damage.
Last week, the organization faced another setback when a rooftop air conditioning unit was damaged, and materials, including scrap aluminum and copper, valued at approximately $50, were stolen. This singular incident resulted in a loss of $9,000.
The Habitat-Roanoke’s Director of Development, David Tate, provided a statement to WFXR News, indicating the gravity of the situation: “That is nothing.”
“Over the past 18 months, we have had three catalytic converters stolen, one destroyed, a gas tank drilled, supplies taken from locked storage, an air conditioning unit dismantled for scrap, holes made in the fence, barbed wire removed, propane tanks missing, windshields broken for inspection stickers, work trailers vandalized, and tools stolen. It is, in essence, a surge of crime targeting a Christian ministry,” expressed David Tate.
Given the extent and nature of the incidents, Habitat-Roanoke finds itself compelled to publicly address the situation and request community assistance, a step they had hoped to avoid.
“We find it necessary to bring attention to these repeated offenses, as Habitat-Roanoke operates as a non-profit ministry. The cumulative impact of these acts of theft and vandalism is truly overwhelming,” Mr. Tate shared.
Any individuals with information about these incidents are urged to get in touch with the Roanoke Police Department at 540-853-2212.
