NATRONA HEIGHTS, Pa. — A Marine Corps Reserve Toys For Tots donation site claims someone stole nearly 25 children’s bicycles.
Jenn Neilen, Toys For Tots coordinator for the Alle Kiski/Allegheny Valley Area, tells Channel 11 the brand-new bikes, meant for older boys, were kept behind lock and key inside of a storage container outside of their Natrona Heights location.
Neilen believes someone cut the lock overnight and by the time she discovered the crime, Toys For Tots recipients were already in line, hoping to collect their gifts for under the tree.
“We just had to apologize, and say we will try again next year,” said Neilen. “That age group is where we struggle and that’s why we try to give a bike to the older kids to make up for not having as many toys, like we would give the younger kids.”
Harrison Township Police confirm a report was taken and they are looking into who may have stolen Christmas for the children in need.
In the meantime, Neilen is urging the public to be on the lookout, believing the thief may sell the bikes on Facebook.
“Karma will get you in the end. You can’t do something dirty and think you’ll get away with it. There are eyes and ears everywhere and people are watching,” said Neilen.
If you have brand-new bikes meant for older boys, you can donate them to Toys For Tots at 838 Pittsburgh St, Springdale, PA 15114 or call 724-304-7036.
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