Last week, thieves broke into a concessions stand, leaving behind only a penny, at the White Oak (Pa.) Athletic Association.
According to Trib Live, the concessions stand services the organization’s lower baseball and softball facility. White Oak Athletic Association is a non-profit, community-run organization that includes baseball, softball and basketball leagues for youth athletes. The money in the concession stands was earmarked for an end-of-the-season celebration with the kids.
The thieves forcibly entered the locked concessions building, breaking in through a secured front door and climbing through an HVAC vent. Not only did they steal the cash from concessions, they also caused damage to the facility.
“Money and funding are already extremely tough … bills are up, community support is stretched, and every dollar truly matters,” the association said in an online statement following the theft. “Instead of putting those funds toward equipment, field improvements, events, uniforms, and opportunities for our players, we now have to spend even more on additional security measures because of a selfish and heartless act.”
While White Oak Athletic Association did not confirm how much money was taken from the cash box — noting only a relatively small monetary loss — leaders did say that one little penny was left in the drawer when they arrived the next day.
According to WTAE, in its statement, the organization thanked its local volunteers and parents who have stepped up to continue providing athletic experiences for the youth athletes in the community.
“If you have any information regarding this incident, please reach out to us or contact the White Oak Borough Police Department directly,” White Oak Athletic Association leaders said. “They have been notified and are actively investigating. Even the smallest piece of information could be helpful.”
