SEATTLE — Thieves stole food and hygiene supplies from a non-profit organization working overtime to help people during the coronavirus outbreak.
Two men first broke into Compass Housing Alliance's Seattle office on Saturday afternoon, the non-profit said.
They came back the next day and were captured on surveillance video ransacking a refrigerator and loading up a cart full of donated food and hygiene products meant for homeless and low-income people.
Compass said the thieves likely made off with between $500 and $1,000 worth of goods.
“We've been churning through our donations at a higher rate, especially with non-perishable food, as families lose their jobs,” said Liz Jarrard, director of advancement for Compass.
She said the organization is extra busy these days, trying to help people through tough economic times. There's an increased need for their services, like a day center they run in Pioneer Square.
“What we've seen is some other day centers around us closing or going into lockdown and we've done everything we can to stay open safely,” she said.
Costs are up, and donations are more important than ever, Jarrad said.
The thieves did not take computers or other high-value office equipment, just food and items you'd find in the grocery store.
Jarrard said that may say something about what people are going through right now.
“Yes, it was wrong that they broke in and stole things, and also we're keenly aware of what people do when they're in great need,” she said.
More info on how to help Compass here.