UPDATED: Thieves Steal Gifts From St. Anne's Church

Thieves stole hundreds of gifts that were gathered throughout the year to give to families in need in Shrewsbury.

On Tuesday, Dec. 4, Shrewsbury police were called to St. Anne's Church, where presents were taken out of the shed that stored presents and gift cards valued at thousands of dollars that had been donated toward a drive headed by the Food Pantry.

The presents were for children in need and most of the gift cards were to be used to purchase food and other essentials by the families, said police. The gifts were gathered throughout the year and were to be distributed during the holiday season. The gifts and cards are valued between $2,000-$3,000.

JoAnn Keegan, who is the food pantry manager and volunteer coordinator, said the thieves kicked the door of the shed where the toys were stored. Hundreds of toys worth several thousand dollars were stolen.

"People have started donating," said Keegan, who said that Hasbro donated toys and others have donated gift cards. "It is devastating that someone would take from children in need."

For those wishing to donate, gift cards or toys can be dropped off at the church.

For monetary donations, make checks payable to: St. Anne’s Human Services, 130 Boston Tpke., Shrewsbury, Ma. 01545

The Department is requesting that anyone that has any information please contact Detective Michael R. McGinnis of the Shrewsbury Police Detective Bureau at 508-845-4681.

If anyone would like to donate to the church, call 508-799-4169.