Thief Steals Catalytic Converter From Owasso Nonprofit's Truck

A group that provides food to people in need is now in a bind after a thief stole a catalytic converter off the box truck they use to pick up donations.

Neighbors in Need in Owasso has been handing out food in five communities in Green Country for the past 11 years.

"Started out as a closet in a church and have grown over the years to what we are now," said volunteer Robin Smith.

The food pantry packs up perishables and gives out bags every Tuesday, but on the other days they stock the shelves and rely heavily on donations. Volunteers drive a box truck around to pick up the food.

But, that came to a halt on Sunday when someone stole the catalytic converter off the truck.

"Our neighbor next door said he didn't hear anything at all, so it must have been quick and quiet," said Smith.

They are now relying on volunteers to drive their own to make it work, and the box truck is in the shop waiting to get fixed.

She said they have no clue how much it'll cost, and now have to use money they have been saving for their Christmas donations.

"Unfortunately what the people who stole it didn't realize is that they are literally taking food out of people's mouths, because now the money that we were going to use to help with our food baskets is now going to have to pay for a catalytic converter," she said.

She said this is frustrating, but they are still committed to serving the area, and helping those in need. She said they have filed a police report and hope someone comes forward with information.

"That's the saddest part about the whole thing is that I don't think they realized what an impact it has on a nonprofit like us," she said.

She said they have donation information on the Neighbors in Need Facebook Page. If you have any information on the theft, call the Owasso Police Department.