STAFF at the Valley Cafe in Taree have been left reeling after a thief broke in and stole raffle ticket money destined to be used for Special Olympics athletes' uniforms.
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About $170 of raffle ticket money was stolen when the offender or offenders kicked in the front door of the Manning Street business on Wednesday night, February 10.
"It's a low act, a despicable low act," said Valley Industries chief executive officer Trent Jennison.
Trent said the plastic tupperware case containing the ticket money was the only thing stolen in the raid.
"They've kicked in the front door, the alarm's gone off so they've found a little cash and run off," he said.
The raffle was intended to be drawn on May 2, with the fundraising to go towards the purchase of uniforms for athletes from Valley Industries attending the Special Olympics later this year.
Valley Industries, a business which offers a range of employment opportunities to people with disability, had donated all three prizes in the raffle with a combined value of more than $500.
Trent said that staff at the shop had been left upset and angry by the incident.
"They're always going to be upset if something like this happens," he said.
Staff members agreed.
"Stealing from a charity is as low as it gets," said Julie Holmes, a chef and supervisor at the cafe.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Taree Police Station on 6552 0399.
o With six books of tickets stolen as well, the public is reminded to only buy tickets from Valley Cafe.