Irreparable car and truck batteries, which were being stockpiled for a charity effort, were discovered stolen from the Recharge Support Fund committee’s Deniliquin depot on Wednesday morning.
Committee member Wendy Johnston said the theft of the batteries, which had been delivered and donated, was disheartening.
‘‘All the money we get from recycling them would have gone back to local people in need,’’ she said.
‘‘Our fund has helped people with the cost of fuel, to buy groceries, cover bills or pharmacy accounts and we even fixed a gopher for one local and gave her some independence back.
‘‘At least 70 per cent of our applicants are people seeking treatment for illnesses other than cancer, as those with cancer have other avenues through CanAssist and the NSW Cancer Council.
‘‘We never want to see anyone doing it tough, but this theft does put a dent in what we can do.
‘‘It is disappointing that someone has helped themselves to items that were there to help everyone.’’
Mrs Johnston said as none of the batteries were in working order, she can only assume the thief will recycle them and cash-in on the charity stockpile and she believes the closest battery recycling place is in Echuca.
As well as losing money to be donated, the group may be left further out of pocket as it reassesses its security measures.
Despite the setback, Mrs Johnston said the Recharge Support Fund was determined to still help as many people as it could.
Those wanting to know more about the help the group provides, leaflets and application forms can be found at all local medical providers and Intereach, or visit the group’s Facebook page.