State Police investigating after $20k in equipment stolen from Habitat for Humanity site

By: Amanda Pitts

alpitts@abc6.com

@AmandaPittsTV

EXETER, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island State Police are investigating after $20,000 worth of tools and equipment were stolen from a Habitat for Humanity construction site late Monday night or early Tuesday morning.

The duplex, located on Highland Court in Exeter, is under construction for two families in need. Volunteers arrived at the site Tuesday morning to find the tools for the job gone.

“They noticed the trailer had been broken into, it was locked and secured, but they were able to pry the doors open and pretty much took everything out of it.”

Colin Penney, Executive Director of South County Habitat for Humanity, said everything from generators and saws. to safety glasses and hammers were stolen.

“We are fortunate to have some insurance, but with the high deductible and depreciation of the tools, it’s a pretty big financial hit as well.”

The financial hit left the nearly 200 volunteers to take matters into their own hands to get the job done.

“A lot of our volunteers brought their own tools in so we could keep on working on Tuesday, a lot of community members have reached out to donate their own tools, and a lot of folks have donated some funds to help us get through the next few months,” said Penney.

Thanks to the outpouring, the two-family home is on track to be move-in ready by March. Penney said the robbery hasn’t affected volunteers’ spirits, or their drive to help those in need.

“It’s heartbreaking at first, Tuesday was a tough day for us all. But seeing how many people came out to support us makes all the difference in the world.”

To donate to South County Habitat for Humanity’s fundraiser to replace the equipment, click here.

(c) WLNE-TV 2018