RENTON, Wash. — A Renton nonprofit focused on providing transitional housing for families experiencing homelessness is out thousands of dollars after thieves stole its truck, used it for various crimes and totaled it.
"This truck represents hope for families that are coming out of homelessness,” said Stacy Cleveland, the Family Program Director at Vision House.
But now, this symbol of hope is a complete loss.
"This truck is not drivable; it's got a flat tire over here, and it was found crashed in a ditch," said Cleveland.
Vision House has been providing transitional housing for families experiencing homelessness for the last 34 years.
"It is a pathway for them to come into a fully furnished housing unit and start their lives fresh," said Cleveland.
The nonprofit is working with more than 200 families right now. So, it's not ideal to have its primary maintenance truck that helps fix any issues at the complexes out of commission after it was stolen earlier this month. It was a huge hit, costing thousands of dollars to replace.
"$20,000 is a significant cost. I mean, we can furnish several new apartments for families with $20,000," said Cleveland.
Staff said police found the truck totaled near Liberty High School a couple of days after it was stolen. A Renton neighbor also shared Ring camera video with KING 5 of what appears to be someone using the stolen truck to steal packages off their porch. “It's just kind of an extra blow," said Cleveland.
And this isn't the first time this nonprofit has dealt with heartbreak. About a year ago, KING 5 reported someone broke into its garage stealing $12,000 worth of equipment.
Despite these major setbacks, Vision House is optimistic this community will help them bounce back.
“We're grateful for their support, and I know they care just as much as we do about helping families have access to a healthy home," said Cleveland.