3 days ago
A/C unit stolen from Austin nonprofit as temps rise
AUSTIN (KXAN) — An organization that helps people deal with the loss of loved ones is now dealing with loss as well.
In early May, thieves stole an A/C unit from outside The Christi Center on Hancock Drive in central Austin.
'It is a little warm as you can see, the heat is intense,' said Cathy Collins, Crime Victim Advocate with The Christi Center.
Collins said she believes someone pulled up behind their largest building, which backs up to an empty lot, then cut and pulled the units off the wall.
'What you are looking at was the location of our two units,' said Collins as she pointed out the empty blocks where the units used to be.
She said one unit was damaged too much as the thieves were trying to take it, so it was left behind. But the other was stolen.
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Since the theft took place, The Christi Center has not been using their largest facility, where they hold large meetings for people dealing with grief.
When KXAN stopped by it was 84 degrees inside the room.
They posted that the lack of A/C has disrupted critical programming for grieving children and adults at a time when demand for services is at an all time high.
Collins said before they get the new A/C units installed they are adding fencing around the back of the property and raising money for more security features.
'So we have the fence and a good portion of it is already built,' Collins said.
She said they filed a police report, but have not heard back about any suspects at this time.
The Christi Center did set up a GoFundMe to cover some of the costs. If you would like to help you can click here.
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