Rushden community group ‘overwhelmed’ by support after money box stolen
Charity leaders have praised the ‘kindness, support and generosity’ of the community who have rallied around after money was stolen from Rush 2the Den’s home in Rushden.
A money box containing between £400 and £600 that was in the entrance of the charity’s Rushden home in Fitzwilliam Street was taken at around 7.30pm on Friday, May 8.
It comes as the group is currently raising funds to build a new second floor at the charity’s home, known as Operation: Raise the Roof, with frequent fundraising efforts required to reach their goal of £100,000.
Nina ‘River’ Robinson is the founder of Rush 2the Den and admitted to the whole ordeal being ‘upsetting.’
She said: “Unfortunately the two volunteer leaders on site had just taken equipment round to the rear of our building. Within the three minutes it took to return, the unit was gone along with all items from the food donations freezer.
“Police have been informed but as no-one was hurt they have yet to attend.
“We would like to thank the amazing person who found the damaged unit in Queen Street and called us to alert us of the situation.”
The money box, known by children who attend Rush 2the Den as ‘dink dink,’ was found empty of cash and damaged in Queen Street.
Fundraising has varied from a £20,000 cash boost from Asda's community fund to its volunteers taking on five peaks and almost 5,500ft over the course of five days in the Peak District last year.
Now, leaders at the charity have thanked the local community, who have rallied around Rush 2the Den, offering their support.
Nina added: “Over the last few days, we have been completely overwhelmed by the kindness, support and generosity shown to Rush 2the Den following the theft of our charity donation box.
“What happened has been incredibly upsetting for our volunteers and community. Every penny in that box was there to help us continue supporting local children, young people and families, so to have it stolen was heartbreaking.
“But in the middle of something so awful, our community has once again reminded us why we do what we do. The messages, comments, offers of help, donations and simple acts of kindness have meant more than we could ever put into words.
“Thank you to every single person who has reached out, shared our posts, checked in on us, offered support or asked how they can help.
"Your kindness has helped lift spirits during a really difficult time and reminded us just how loved and valued Rush 2the Den truly is.”