Locals rally round after Wolverhampton charity is hit by break-in
The CEO of a Midlands charity has spoken of mixed emotions after a break-in at a storage facility.
Randhir Singh has been reflecting on the break-in at the Wolverhampton storage facility of the Midlands Langar Seva Society (MLSS) on Moorfield Road in Blakenhall.
The break-in, which took place between Monday, April 27 and Tuesday, April 28, saw food such as pasta and pasta sauces and sleeping bags stolen after a window was broken.
Randhir Singh helped found the charity, which works to provide free food and drink for the most vulnerable people across the region.
He spoke about the break-in and said that while it was disheartening that it had happened, he also spoke about the desperation the burglars may have had.
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"The food that was stolen wasn't there to be sold on or to stock up, but was going to go to the most vulnerable members of the community," he said.
"I got the call about 1am on the night it happened from one of our volunteers and we've been taking stock of what was stolen.
"It's very disappointing that it happened as we want to keep providing a service for the most vulnerable and for people in isolation.
Response
"On the other hand, however, I can imagine how desperate the person must have been to steal what they did, maybe doing it to provide for their children."
An appeal for new donations has gone up on the MLSS website and social media and Randhir said the response had already been beyond anything he could expected.
He said: "We have a lot of genuine supporters and my phone has been going crazy since the appeal went out with people wanting to donate.
"We've had donations rolling in left, right and centre, so it's nice to know there's so many genuine people out there who want to help.
"The break-in is a disappointment, but not a blow and it won't deter us in our work to help feed the homeless on the street, as well as elderly and vulnerable people."
West Midlands Police have put out an appeal for any witnesses as part of a statement.
A spokesperson said: "We were called to reports of a burglary at Midland Langar Seva Society in Moorfield Road, Wolverhampton, sometime between 8pm on Monday, April 27 and 1.15pm on Tuesday, April 28.
"A window was smashed and food was taken during the break-in.
"Anyone who may have any information can contact us quoting crime reference number, 20WV/99863L/20, via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
To donate to Midlands Langar Seva Society, go to midlandlangarseva.org/volunteer-or-donate/
