MDS trailer stolen Jan. 5, worth over $10,000

$3,500 worth of tools replaced when community steps up with generous offers

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When community generosity overshadows the unpleasantness of theft, there is reason to celebrate. When Bert Hamm, Mennonite Disaster Service project director, returned to the MDS campsite located at the vacant Ramona Community School in San Diego County, Calif., on Jan. 5, he noticed the absence of the MDS tool trailer.

Storm Aid, an Amish group composed of MDS volunteers in Lancaster, Pa., donated the 6-by-12-foot trailer. The tools and trailer are estimated to be worth "well over $10,000," says Hamm.

Local law enforcement officers believe the tool trailer, holding a majority of MDS tools needed to rebuild houses, disappeared around Dec. 12 or 13, 2009. The San Diego County sheriff’s department is asking locals to help recover the trailer.

However, the seemingly big setback turned out to be a minor interruption for MDS volunteers.

MDS director of communications Scott Sundberg, says, "Knowing our volunteers, I wonder if it even slowed them down much. Thankfully, though, people and churches are stepping up to help so that our volunteers have what they need to make a difference."

Familiar with the work of MDS, pastors of Grace Community Church, located near the MDS campsite, heard the news and "wanted to do something to help," Hamm says.

They took two special offerings to help offset the costs MDS incurred in lost material. The church collected $2,225 and gave it as a gift to MDS.

Local stores have also started donating tools. "We are grateful for the support received from the community," says Hamm. "The community is more aware of us being here and the work we are doing."

Since the incident, Hamm slowly purchased new tools. So far, approximately $3,500 worth of tools have been replaced.

The incident created new MDS partnerships and awareness of the ministry of MDS, and it raised community awareness of displaced neighbors.

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