Major theft causes $10k loss for Maplewood non-profit

MAPLEWOOD, Mo. – A recent theft has left an organization shaken in Maplewood.

Home Sweet Home, a furniture and household item non-profit, had two catalytic converters stolen from their donation trucks, which pick up and deliver items to customers. The theft led to $10,000 needed for replacements.

“To have to stop everything that were doing (and) recalibrate all of our deliveries for families that were waiting for furniture that morning—our team pivoted real fast, like they always do, to go get that rental truck and to make sure we didn’t miss a beat for our services that we’re providing,” Betsy Reznicek, executive director of Home Sweet Home, said.

Home Sweet Home has rented a replacement truck as well as rescheduled pickups and deliveries. Their resilience is fueled by an incredible support system of staff, volunteers and generous donors.

Reznicek stated in March that the other businesses in the complex were victims of theft, but Home Sweet Home was not affected. The board has also discussed new security measures to prevent future thefts.

“Those trucks are not going to come back until we can say that they are going to be secure. So, we have various different methods that we’re gonna employ and that also will have an additional cost,” she said.

The organization partners with 60 different agencies, serving over 5,000 families and donating more than 330,000 items to those in need. Despite the ordeal, the non-profit remains focused on their mission to transform houses into homes.

“Our mission here at Home Sweet Home is to give people dignity and pride in their lives. So, no matter what, we encourage our donors, our volunteers, and our staff to not judge the people that are doing it….people should still be held responsible for their actions by all means,“ Reznicek said.

For those who would like to donate any items or help financially, click here .

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