FLORENCE, SC (WBTW) – Lighthouse Ministries in Florence is a nonprofit organization that helps those in need. A recent burglary had the group asking for the community’s help.
Outreach Director and Program Coordinator, Veyounder Brown explains what the stolen items were used for.
Brown said, “The items taken from us were really the incentives that we gave to mothers… in addition to being an incentive but something that we could take out of their budget.”
The Working Mother’s Education and Support program teaches mothers stress relief practices over a six month period — while helping them reach their goals and save money. Goals within the program include: saving for a car or not using a loan service for car problems.
“What made it so hard is that… we know the mothers,” Brown adds, “One mother who called, I had to tell her… call back before you come because I have to see if we have that diaper size.”
The organization lost more than $6,000 in baby supplies. Things stolen include: baby wipes, soap, lotion, diapers, detergent and ointment
Lighthouse Ministries Executive Director, Cecilia Meggs, said the community rallied around the Ministry.
“The community has really blessed us tremendously, with financial donations. Product donations, support and other agencies have reached out to us.” Meggs adds, “It’s been a blessing.”
In less than 24 hours, the nonprofit passed its goal of $6000 on gofundme.com.
“I was shocked when exceeded our goal. The true testament of the Florence community is other nonprofit organizations reaching out to us,” said Meggs.
The group hopes new deadbolt locks and security cameras will better protect the building. Starting tomorrow, all of the doors in the building will have dead bolts. Earlier this year the ministries storage building was burglarized more than three times — which caused them to board the windows.
Now the main building must receive extra security measures.
Meggs believes the theft made the community unite and stronger.
“There are good people in our community. A few people don’t actually reflect the Florence community,” said Meggs.
Brown said one former program participate hopes this theft inspires the community.
“Someone thought that the community doesn’t care… and someone is going to be able to see by the reaching that the community has shown us… that the community does care,” explained Brown.
Florence Police continue to investigate the burglary.
First Reliance Bank started an account for the Ministry that will match donated funds.
If you’d like to donate visit First Reliance Bank on West Palmetto or Second Loop in Florence.
