'Huge setback' for Leeds Baby Bank as burglars smash way in

The charity is calling for the community to rally behind them

A Leeds charity which provides essentials to struggling families has been left devastated following a break-in.

Leeds Baby Bank on Wellington Road in Leeds was burgled overnight on Friday, October 16, with essential supplies stolen as well as damage caused. Windows and doors were smashed.

The charity said it was a "devastating start to the day" and staff were left "heartbroken."

The response so far from the community to the setback has been huge, with thousands of pounds already raised towards a £20,000 fundraiser. In a post, the charity said: "Laptops, iPads and phones that we rely on to prepare essential bundles for babies and families in need have been stolen. Our building has also been damaged, leaving us facing costly repairs.

"This is a huge setback for our charity. The unexpected cost of replacing essential equipment and repairing the damage puts additional pressure on our resources - resources that should be going towards supporting the families who need us most."

The charity has set up an online fundraiser on Gofundme which has already raised more than £15,000 towards a £20,000 target. The fund can be found here. More than 600 people have donated to the fund.

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Leeds Baby Bank said: "Every donation, no matter how small, will help us replace what has been stolen, repair the damage and continue providing vital support to babies and families across our community.

"If you’re able to donate, we would be incredibly grateful. If you can’t donate, sharing this appeal can make a real difference by helping us reach others who may be able to support us.

"Thank you for your kindness, generosity and continued support. At a time when we’ve been dealt such a difficult blow, standing together as a community means more than ever.

"Please help us turn this heartbreaking setback into a reminder of what we can achieve when we come together."