A charity supporting the local homeless communitas fell victim to a break-in during the early hours of Saturday, September 14.
The incident took place at The Camrose Centre's premises at Glebe Hall in Church Square.
The centre told the Gazette that an individual forced entry to the premises and breached a locked office door.
Laptops, a sum of cash, and several items of donated clothing meant for the charity’s clients were stolen from the centre.
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The burglary happened on the same weekend that several Camrose volunteers were participating in the London to Brighton Cycle Ride, adding to the charity's strain.
The Camrose Centre staff and volunteers were devastated upon discovering the theft, which included the donations.
Nevertheless, the team said it is determined to continue its mission of supporting the homeless population despite this setback.
“We are deeply saddened by this violation, especially because the items taken were meant to help those most in need. But we are resilient and committed to continuing our work,” said Matt Sheerin, chair of trustees at the Camrose Centre.
“This won’t break us. Our priority is to keep our doors open for the community that depends on us.”
The Camrose Centre provides essential services to homeless individuals, operating five days a week.
These services include hot meals, takeaway food packs, hot showers, clean clothing, and crucial advice and support for those seeking to improve their circumstances.
The centre relies heavily on donations to fund its operations.
While the burglary is undoubtedly a setback, the team said it remains steadfast in its resolve.
“We will rebuild, and we will continue to be there for the people who rely on us every day,” Mr Sheerin said.
“We’re stronger than this, and our community has always come together in times of need.”
The centre reopened partially on Sunday, offering two hours of services to its clients. Staff and volunteers cleaned up the property after evidence collection, and the centre expects to return to full service on Tuesday, September 17.
Despite being short-staffed due to the cycle ride event, the team managed to coordinate cleanup efforts and keep communication open with the community.
“It demonstrates the single-minded approach we have in helping the community,” Mr Sheerin said, while acknowledging the challenges faced over the weekend.
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A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary confirmed that police are investigating the break-in, which occurred between 7.45pm on September 13 and 8am on September 14.
Anyone with information regarding the burglary is encouraged to contact police either online or by calling 101, quoting reference number 44240394884.
For more information about the Camrose Centre and its work, visit thecamrosecentre.org
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