CALLOUS crooks stole hundreds of pounds of food that was set to be given to vulnerable families and homeless people in Basildon.
Two thieves made off with a shopping trolley full of food after breaking into Mother’s Kitchen, in Felmores End, at roughly 3am yesterday.
The cafe has revealed the “majority of its stock” was stolen as well as food boxes used to feed children.
The cafe hosts a youth club every Friday where more than 100 children receive a hot meal and are given food boxes for the weekend.
Owner Maz also regularly donates food to homeless people living in the borough.
He has revealed as well as stealing hundreds of pounds of food, the crooks damaged the cafe and ripped the stock room’s door of its hinges.
However, since the incident, the community has come together to support the cafe and Tesco, in Pitsea, is offering food and groceries to help restock the fridges.
Maz, who runs the cafe with his brother Ozzy, said they would “not be frightened” by the incident.
“I know people do these things because they need to and I am not upset with them.
“I just wish they came and spoke to us first and we could have helped them and given them food for their families.
“We used to provide food for twelve families, but we will only be able to serve four now.
“This will not stop us. We are committed to the community and will continue to help those around.”
Since opening a year ago, Mother’s Kitchen have been an active supporter of the local community and partnered with Felmores Primary School and Brisco school to provide food for vulnerable children.
As well as providing food for families, the cafe also hands out groceries and clothing.
Maz says it is his way of giving back to the community.
He said: “For most of these children, the only time they have a proper full meal is at the club.
“Its our way of keeping youngsters away from trouble and giving them somewhere to belong.
“We make sure we got enough to feed everyone and give parcels to the families so that they can be supported over the weekend.”
Essex Police said: “We received a call at shortly before 8.05am on May 21 reporting a burglary at a café in Felmores End, Pitsea. If you have any information in relation to this incident, please quote the crime reference number 42/78826/24.”
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