North Carolina nonprofit experiences 2nd break-in in a week; food for the needy stolen

WILSON, N.C. (WNCN) — An organization in Wilson that helps feed those in need is looking for answers after their truck was broken into twice in the span of a week.

Everett Speight, the founder of Waymakers of North Carolina, says the thieves stole industrial fans, a vital tool to keep volunteers cool during the scorching heat of summer.

“They broke into the truck one week, and then they came back the next week, busted the window out,” Speight said. “They really needed the fans. They do a lot of good for the volunteers. We actually had some volunteers in the past, before we purchased the fans, that had gotten too hot.”

While Speight says the objects can be replaced, he added, “I hope whoever is doing it will stop doing it, period. I would say to us, but they just need to stop doing it to people, period.”

Volunteer Gretchen Allen has seen first-hand the impact the organization continues having for people across Wilson. “I don’t understand [the break-ins] at all,” she said. “When you give somebody a meal that needs a meal, you don’t understand what that means to them. The need in this community is heartbreaking.”

Speight started the organization three years ago. What started out as a 400-meal giveaway a few years ago in celebration of his birthday has continued to grow.

The organization hosts meal giveaways once a month at Jackson Chapel on Nash Street near downtown. They also have blessing boxes scattered across the city to help those in need throughout the year.

“We really help a lot of people,” he said. “We actually give away 12 and 1500 plates every month.”

Speight hopes anyone with information about the break-ins will contact the Wilson Police Department.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP.