Special to IFN

Iredell Community Outreach Association is asking the community to help the nonprofit rebound after its retail shop was broken into twice in a five-week period.

On June 1, the Iredell COAST Hidden Gem Variety Store, located on Center Street was broken into. The burglar caused $1,700 in damages to the front glass door and stole almost $1,000 from the nonprofit.

This break-in was among over half a dozen more in the Statesville community. While the insurance company paid to replace the door, the stolen cash was never recovered.

On Monday, July 8, a man matching the same description broke into the same location. While alarms were activated, it took the police about five minutes to arrive on the scene, which allowed the perpetrator to flee. Nothing was stolen, but the new door was shattered.

Iredell COAST has set up a gofundme account to allow the community to help cover the cost of a new door. The campaign’s goal is $2,000.

“We are asking for the public’s help in replacing our door,” the organization said. “As a nonprofit organization, we do not have the funds to pour into this. Our outreach includes a food pantry, clothing closet, and various other events throughout the year. With a very high overhead, the funds just aren’t there for a new door.”

HOW TO CONTRIBUTE

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