Businesses and residents in Cumberland County are doing their part to help a Vineland memorial home that was targeted by thieves.
On Friday, police say more than 70 wreaths and red ribbons were stolen from the graves of veterans at the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home. They were among the 519 wreaths that were laid there by members of the local rotary club earlier in the month.
“It was heartbreaking,” said Lisa Williams, who works at the home. “It was absolutely despicable that someone would desecrate a grave of a veteran. How could you do that to someone who couldn't’t defend himself after they defended our honor and saved our country?”
While police still haven’t found the culprits, business owners and residents are lending a huge helping hand. The owners of three local ShopRite stores replaced the stolen wreaths, dropping them off on Saturday.
“It was a small token that we could pay to the community,” said Bill Bottino of Bottino’s ShopRite. “We try to help out in the community when we can.”
Other residents also donated money for the ribbons to be replaced.
“To see all these people come forth who wanted to help our veterans make their holidays better, it really restored the faith in Christmas,” Williams said.
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If you have any information on the people responsible for the theft, please call the Vineland Police Department.
