Christmas Gifts Stolen From West Deptford Charity

A New Jersey charity, Wheels of Change, reported that hundreds of Christmas presents were stolen from a storage trailer in West Deptford. Employees of Wheels of Change told West Deptford police that the locks on the trailer at 1997 Gateway Blvd. in Westville had been cut around Nov. 20. Thirteen bags filled with toys were missing.

The stolen bags contained toys purchased by Wheels of Change or donated for distribution to families in need during the holidays.

Wheels of Change founder Brenda Gonzalez told NBC10 Philadelphia that staff noticed the locks had been cut during a Thanksgiving food distribution event. The nonprofit's building lacked exterior surveillance cameras, so staff said they didn't know exactly when the theft occurred or who might have committed it.

According to NJ Advance Media, police were alerted about the theft on Wednesday, Nov. 26. The investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been reported.

When news of the theft was made public, Wheels of Change said hundreds of generous residents stepped up to donate thousands of dollars and hundreds of toys. Wheels of Change explained that the monetary and material donations will allow it to provide toys, coats, and essentials for 628 kids and families this holiday season. Additionally, Wheels of Change said it could help more families following the community's continued outpouring of support.

“Are we upset? Yes, we are, but bigger blessings are on the way to WOC and the families this impacted,” Wheels of Change said in a statement via social media. “Don't let the Grinch take away your Christmas spirit. We aren't dwelling on what happened here last weekend. We are looking ahead in what we can do for our community.”

“No gift is too small,” a social media post by the group read. “Each one has changed children's lives and restored the magic we've been missing for years.”

If you would like to assist Wheels of Change, you can donate toys and other items to its location at 1997 Gateway Blvd., Suite 4, in Westville. Donations can be dropped off on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.