HPD investigating American Red Cross burglary

HATTIESBURG, Miss. - The following is a press release from American Red Cross.

Overnight (Friday, Jan 27.) the American Red Cross office in Hattiesburg was broken into. The individual or individuals who broke into the office at 2020 Hardy Street kicked in many doors throughout the facility and stole a portable office safe containing less than $200 in petty cash, two computers and a few other items.

“This unfortunate event, however, will not hinder the ability of the American Red Cross to continue providing much needed Red Cross disaster relief assistance to those affected by the tornadoes just one week ago,” said John McFarland, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Southeast Mississippi.

Anyone with information on the break-in should contact the Hattiesburg Police Department at (601) 544-7900.

Since last Saturday, the Red Cross has opened 4 shelters providing 340 overnight stays; delivered over 24,100 meals and snacks; delivered over 9,200 bulk relief items such as clean-up kits, comfort kits, tarps, rakes and shovels; and completed more than 600 health and mental health service contacts.

From the Hardy Street office, volunteers have also processed over 470 calls for assistance.

Sheltering continues today at the FEMA 361 shelter on Sullivan Road in Hattiesburg and Red Cross volunteers continue to deliver meals and disaster supplies to residents who need them. Caseworkers continue to meet with families most affected by the tornado to determine what other assistance they need.