Is there anything worse than stealing from those who are in need?

When Michael’s Grace Place was broken into in August, the thief or thieves made off with almost $3,000 worth of food that would have gone to people in our community who are struggling to make ends meet.

The South Point-based food pantry and the people who rely on it took a tremendous blow from the theft.

Infants and young children, senior citizens, entire families depend on food that comes from Lawrence County’s food pantries. And those pantries depend on donations from the community and food banks to keep their shelves stocked.

It isn’t as simple as going out and buying more food to replace what was stolen. Money was budgeted and items were donated so during the month of September, families could get what they needed.

Thankfully, the community responded by donating even more so the pantry could refill its shelves, but still, employees worry that this month will be stretched thin.

Any kind of theft is wrong, but stealing from an organization that would have gladly given the food to anyone who may have needed it is the worse kind of offense.

This was a despicable act and we hope those involved are caught and held responsible.