The Greater Works Church in Garland is trying to make up for a thief who stole $600 worth of newly delivered back-to-school donations for children in need.
Pastor Anthony Bates said he is disappointed after the thief stole boxes of supplies that had been delivered to the front door of a church member.
"That's bold," Bates said of the suspect, seen on surveillance video returning to the front door of a Mesquite home three times to grab six boxes. "He has a lot of stuff. A lot of stuff!"
The boxes contained 99 backpacks filled with school supplies. They were destined for Garland students in need.
"You'll be surprised of the joy that comes to a kid, just knowing they have what they're going to need to start school," Bates explained.
The theft happened last Thursday in broad daylight. Bates doubts the suspected thief knew what he was taking.
"He just saw boxes," Bates said with a smile, thinking about the suspect opening the boxes to find only school supplies inside. "I hope he had a real bad guilt trip."
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The church is getting to work collecting more donations to make up for what was taken.
"We just need to roll up our sleeves and sacrifice a little more," Bates said. "A sacrifice is not a sacrifice if it don't hurt."
Bates said he harbors no grudge against the person who did it.
"I'm praying for him," Bates said. "Hopefully he has kids that can write with the pencils and cut with the scissors."
The Greater Works Church still plans to give away back-to-school supply donations at its Community Fair on Aug. 20. If you know a child in the Garland area who is in need, or can help donate to help a child in need, find more information on the church's website: GreaterWorksDFW.org.
