A break-in minor girls' softball clubhouse in Chatham has dealt a "severe blow" to the group.
The Chatham Golden Eagles put out a note on social media Monday morning, reporting that their clubhouse on Tweedsmuir Avenue West had been broken into over the weekend.
Chatham-Kent police confirmed they are investigating, adding that it is believed the break-in took place sometime between 9 p.m. Saturday and 7:30 a.m. Sunday.
Police said whoever broke in, took off some food, a projector, and two duffel bags containing personal items owned by staff members.
Golden Eagles Vice President Caress Carpenter said the bulk of the items that were taken were canteen stock and essential kitchen equipment used for running the group's canteen, which just re-opened this year as part of an effort to provide for the community surrounding Blythe Park.
"As former Golden Eagle athletes, and current Golden Eagle coaches and board members – this is obviously incredibly disheartening for [Golden Eagles president Sara Hazell] and I," said Carpenter. "We don't work with a large operating budget and every penny we make goes back into the development of our programming and to offer additional opportunities for kids with less financial barriers."
Carpenter said the Golden Eagles' board is now taking steps to protect the clubhouse, adding that the group is "so appreciative of everyone who has reached out to offer words of support."
She noted the group has a very dedicated and passionate group of volunteers and that they will be back up and running as soon as they can.
A GoFundMe fundraiser has been started to help replenish the canteen, purchase new kitchen equipment, repair and reinforce the doors of the clubhouse, and install a security system.
To donate CLICK HERE.
Anyone with information on the break-in should contact Chatham-Kent police or Crime Stoppers.