An organization dedicated to building safe, affordable homes in the community is now facing a significant challenge: theft.
Habitat for Humanity in Durham has recently experienced a surge in stolen items from its construction sites, slowing the progress of its home-building projects.
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Construction is booming across the Bull City, with dreams coming to life, built from the ground up by Habitat for Humanity volunteers.
Yet, these dreams have encountered serious setbacks over the past six months.
“These are thieves who have the tools to drill or saw off a door,” Tiana Joyner, CEO of Durham Habitat said.
Joyner says the vandals have become increasingly sophisticated, even drilling into the hinges of secure metal storage containers to steal valuable equipment.
“We’ve had everything from siding to power tools stolen—just a lot of different things essential for building our homes,” Joyner said.
Several break-ins at Enterprise, Plum, South Alston, and Kent streets build sites have resulted in losses totaling $20,000.
"So we're trying to do the best that we can with the limited resources that we do have," Joyner said.
Durham Police have also reported a citywide increase in construction site thefts, with over 200 cases this year, up from 153 last year. The lack of video evidence has made it difficult for investigators to track down the culprits.
“Any support to strengthen our security measures would be greatly appreciated,” Joyner said. “This theft is costing us money and time, which we desperately need to continue building.”
She says that 70% of the organization's labor comes from volunteers, and the break-ins create additional obstacles for the organization and the families it serves.
Similar crimes have also been reported with Habitat for Humanity branches in South Carolina and Virginia.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the police.