‘It beggars belief that people can sink so low’
‘DESPICABLE’ THIEVES STEAL LORRY-LOAD OF NAPPIES AND SANITARY PRODUCTS DONATED BY SUPERMARKET TO HELP THE VULNERABLE
THIEVES have stolen nappies and sanitary products worth more than £2,500 that were due to be distributed to help vulnerable women and families.
Supermarket chain Aldi donated a lorryload of products to a council scheme in Salford designed to help residents in need of emergency supplies and ease pressure on food banks.
But all the goods were taken by burglars who broke into a storage unit in Lower Broughton.
Outraged council bosses said the unit on Mocha Parade was completely ‘cleaned out’ and slammed those behind the theft as ‘despicable.’ An appeal has been issued amid fears the goods could be offered for sale on the black market as police investigate. Salford council revealed the same thieves also attempted to break in to a food bank located next to the unit, but couldn’t force their way inside. The shocking theft was discovered on Friday and all the goods were due to be distributed yesterday. City mayor Paul Dennett said the items were donated to help women on low incomes facing monthly period poverty. “This is one of the most despicable thefts I have ever come across,” he said. “Those responsible must have known the items were there and planned this theft because we believe they used a van to take away their haul. It beggars belief that people would sink so low as to steal from a food bank knowing those items are for people who are in desperate need.
“To also steal sanitary pads, tampons and nappies donated to help women and children struggling to maintain their personal hygiene and dignity shows these people have no conscience.
“Sanitary goods and nappies are not luxury items and are expensive for everyone, let alone families in dire poverty.
“Aldi’s generous donation would have meant a great deal to people on the breadline who will now have to continue struggling.”
Tom Togher, chief officer at Salford Citizen’s Advice, said staff burst into tears at the news. He said: “People who come to the food bank often tell us they have not eaten in three days. They are absolutely on the breadline and if they can’t afford food they can’t afford nappies and sanitary products.
“This generous donation would have eased the pressure on hundreds of women and families across the city. We are stunned anyone could sink so low.”
The council said a new and more secure storage site was being arranged.
In the meantime, a collection point at Salford Civic Centre in Swinton will be open between 9am and 5pm every day for donations.