IN a show of support to Share and Care after a brazen Christmas Eve theft, the Avon Valley Advocate has opened a fundraising appeal to raise money for a new outdoor setting.
The original large jarrah table and four bench seats were stolen from the front area of the Share and Care building.
A male culprit was captured on CCTV using bolt cutters to free the setting and lifting it on the back of a ute before driving off.
Share and Care chief executive Carol Jones said the incident hit staff morale; especially given a second attempt was made on January 19 to steal the organisation's second set of outdoor furniture.
Wheatbelt residents are encouraged to make a donation, large or small, through the Avon Valley Advocate.
"Being a non-profit organisation this was something we didn't expect to budget for," Ms Jones said.
"However, when staff know someone is going in to bat for them it helps a lot we really appreciate this fundraising initiative."
It is anticipated a new outdoor setting will be bought in April to enable the seniors' Cuppa Club to meet outside the Share and Care building.
Ms Jones said new tables and chairs would be bought locally.
Avon Valley Advocate manager Deanne Young said she and the Advocate staff were aware of what a huge community asset Share and Care is.
"We were disgusted someone could have bought themselves to do this," she said.
"Maybe one day you will need the services of Share and Care. I hope you have a conscience.
"As a not-for-profit organisation, the least we can do is try to help by accepting donations towards a replacement outdoor setting and would like all our local businesses and community members to get behind our efforts.
"All donations will go directly to Share and Care to replace what this person stole."
