Photo: Sarita Patel

Empty pavement where a brand new shed was stolen from the Salvation Army Church in Kelowna.

"It was never used, it was brand new."

A new shed donated to the Salvation Army in Kelowna was stolen Wednesday; the only thing left some nuts and bolts in the grass.

The theft was noticed when staff went to install a missing piece in the structure, says Pastor Darryl Burry.

"We actually just received that piece on Tuesday, and so my maintenance supervisor went out Wednesday morning to finalize putting the shed together, to discover the entire shed was missing.”

The shed was located behind the church, behind gates.

Burry isn't looking to blame anyone, rather open up his doors to those who need it most.

"We are saddened that this happened, but the reality is we know we live in a community with a lot of hurting people, and if by taking this shed this is going to do something to help that individual out in some way, then we say God bless them."

"We want them or anyone else to know that if there’s individuals in need, we are here to help. We will do whatever we can do to come alongside and support someone. We will give them what they need, rather than it having to be stolen ... unfortunately, theft is something that happens all the time in our thrift stores and the reality is that all they have to do is ask, and we’d be happy to provide as best as we can.”

Luckily, the church held onto an old smaller shed since the new one was still being built. 

“It’s been wonderful to see the outpouring of support from the community, we always know we have a fantastic community and we’re just thankful for the words and the kindness that’s been shown since this has happened.”