A Scots poverty charity fears struggling families will be left with nothing at Christmas after thugs torched their lifeline minibus.
Auchmuty and Dovecot Tenants & Residents Association (ADTRA) volunteers were horrified when they discovered their van had been burnt out by cruel vandals in an early morning attack in Fife on Wednesday.
Police are treating the incident as deliberate.
The non-profit community organisation supports more than 450 vulnerable people every week – providing hot meals, bedding and new home starter kits for families. Over the next three weeks they planned to deliver toys and Christmas dinners to families who would otherwise have nothing to celebrate.
Chairperson Alex Thompson said the charity now fears those who need help most may not receive donations before Christmas.
She told the Record: “Over the festive period we deliver hundreds of meals and toys to people in the community who have nothing. We are their lifeline. What we do helps them have something to look forward to on Christmas Day.
“This bus is a huge part of our charity. It is heavily relied on by the local community and to have it taken away from us, is heartbreaking. We feel so let down by those responsible.
“We might not be able to make Christmas special for people who are struggling now. I can’t understand why anyone would do this.”
The £45,000 minibus was awarded to the charity by the Big Lottery Fund five years ago and was adapted to accommodate wheelchairs and disabled residents.
Alex continued: “We had our van adapted to allow wheelchair reliant locals onboard.
“It meant we could provide a service to take disabled people out and give them help and support. We also facilitate community group trips to help isolated and vulnerable people get out of their houses and meet other people.
“It’s a vital lifeline for so many in need.”
In August, Fife Council reported that 26% of children in the area are living in poverty. This is higher than the Scottish average of 21.3%, with areas like Levenmouth, Kirkcaldy, Cowdenbeath, and Glenrothes facing even greater challenges.
Councillor Daniel Wilson: “I’m disgusted at the van being destroyed. ADTRA does so much for our local community and the van was a crucial part of that. I hope those involved feel the full force of the law. I will provide my full support to help ADTRA continue to do their amazing work.”
Local businessman Willie Kerr, who owns Fife Auto Service, has offered to provide the charity with a van whilst they sort out a replacement with their insurance.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 2.40am on Wednesday, 4 December, 2024, we were made aware of a mini bus on fire on Woodside Way, Glenrothes.
“The fire is being treated as wilful and enquiries are ongoing.”
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