Thieves steal Cape Coral church’s truck used to feed the needy

LEE COUNTY, Fla.- A Cape Coral church working to help the community this holiday season has hit a major roadblock.

The pastor at Grace Church tells WINK News the box truck they use to pick up food for their food bank has been stolen.

The church is nestled on the corner of Hancock Bridge Parkway and SE 21st Place. Just down the road is the congregation’s thrift store and food bank.

“The window had been broken out and we saw the pieces of glass, and the truck was gone,” said Pastor Jorge Acevedo.

Broken glass litters the driveway just outside the front door.

“It’s the truck we actually use to collect the food that we give away to about 500 families a month. Somewhere around 1,500 people a month,” said Acevedo.

He says the truck was taken the day before Thanksgiving. It’s used to pick up food and donations for the church’s thrift store.

“All of these things were like put on hold until we could figure out what we were going to do,” said manager Donna Linder.

With a shipment that needs to be picked up Tuesday morning, Linder says they now need to rent a truck.

“That is money then that we have to put out, versus, being able to help somebody,” said Linder.

Even with the headaches caused and the money spent, the church and its members don’t wish ill on whoever is behind the crime.

“We’re praying for that person or those persons that stole it, and we do forgive them,” said Acevedo.

Until the church can come up with a permanent solution, they plan on renting a box truck. Anyone who wishes to help them out can contact the church directly.