A program that connects farmers and gardeners with those in need has been hit by thieves.
Enderby’s Harvest Sharing Hut on Maud Street was recently broken into and a number of items critical to the volunteer effort were stolen.
“They are items that mean nothing to them (thieves) but mean a lot to the Hut,” said Raquel Knust, an Enderby councillor.
Taken was a cover-all canopy, a scale and bags used to divide up fresh fruits and vegetables and hand out to residents.
“The group working there will pull their socks up and keep working hard but it’s frustrating,” said Knust.
“I didn’t think the Hut would be broken into because of what it does for the community.”
During the inaugural year in 2015, an average of 78 people a week were served every Monday between June 29 and early October.
About 3,386 kilograms or 3.72 tonnes of produce was handed out.
Among those relying on the Hut were more than 600 seniors.
The lock to the Hut was broken to provide access but no damage to the building was done.
They (thieves) were using the Hut for a variety of activities,” said Knust who would not elaborate.
Enderby’s Food Action Committee for Today’s Tomorrow will now look at ways to improve security for the Hut.
“We were planning on opening the Hut on the first Monday of June,” said Knust.
Anyone wanting to financially assist the Hut’s operations can contact Knust at Enderby city hall.