Thousands raised after Kings Heath charity shop broken into
An Acorns Children's Hospice charity shop was burgled
Last updated 9th Jun 2021
An online fundraising page has been set up after a charity shop in Kings Heath was broken into.
The Acorns Children's Hospice shop manager found the door open yesterday morning (8 June).
Thieves ripped the till from the counter, before throwing it to the floor.
They also emptied the donation tin, which it's thought contained around £100.
It's estimated, in total, around £2000 worth of damage has been caused.
Acorns Chief Executive Toby Porter said:
“We were deeply saddened to discover thieves had broken into our shop in Kings Heath overnight causing significant damage.
“Our shops play a vital role in helping us raise the funds we need to provide our lifeline care and support for children and families across Birmingham and the West Midlands.
“We’re already working hard to overcome the challenges Covid-19 has created for our retail network and to be dealt this second blow, so soon after reopening, is so disheartening.
“At a time when coronavirus has put huge pressure on the charity sector, it is shocking to think that someone could have deliberately targeted and damaged a shop raising funds for our children’s hospice care. This is not acceptable.
“We would urge anyone who knows anything about the break-in to contact West Midlands Police.”
Since the break-in, a fundraising page was set up.
At the time of writing, it's already raised more than £11,000 in less than 24 hours.
Vicki Rowles is the Head of Fundraising at Acorns:
"We've been overwhelmed with support by the local community, we've had lots and lots of people offering to support us, fix doors for free and any way they can help.
"The community has rallied round and managed to get the shop back open.
"They've done what they do best, they've rallied and ensured we can provide the care we need for children in our hospices".
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