FORT LAUDERDALE — Habitat for Humanity of Broward has issued an urgent plea for the South Florida community’s help to replace dozens of tools stolen last week from the organization’s Fort Lauderdale construction site.
“Our volunteers are ready to put the finishing touches on five homes, but without tools, they’re at a standstill,” said Perry Ecton, Habitat for Humanity of Broward executive director.
“Thieves broke into a large, locked container and stole everything, including table saws, chop saws, compressors, drills, ladders — even 75 hammers.”
The tools were being used at the Rock Island subdivision in Fort Lauderdale, where Habitat is completing the development of 30 homes.
One company stepping forward to help is electronic security firm Sonitrol of Fort Lauderdale, which is donating state-of-the-art wireless video security systems to protect two Habitat for Humanity containers against future theft.
Replacing the array of stolen tools valued at a total of $10,000 to $15,000 has stalled Habitat’s operations, said Ecton. Work on the nearly-completed homes is on hold until the charity determines whether the community will help with the effort.
“We urgently need all types of used or new power tools and hand tools,” Ecton added. “If individuals and businesses can drop off any extra tools from their garages and workshops, or donate funds for replacement tools, it would make a tremendous difference.”
Everest University in Pompano Beach is among businesses that have helped by donating some tools, Ecton said.
Used or new tools can be donated at the Habitat Restore, at 505 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, which is open Monday through Saturday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Since its inception 29 years ago, Habitat for Humanity of Broward has partnered with 328 families in the county to provide simple, decent, affordable housing for families in need.
For information on donating to help replace the stolen tools, call 954-396-3030 or visit habitatbroward.org
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