Thief Takes Georgia Animal Rescue Van; Fundraiser Started

JOHNS CREEK, GA — A thief stole a van used by Furkids Animal Rescue on Saturday outside the organization's Johns Creek thrift store, and now the group needs the public's help.

The van is used to transport donated items to Furkids' four thrift stores, two animal shelters and adoption centers around metro Atlanta. Insurance won't cover what is needed to replace the vehicle, the organization said, and it needs $15,000 to fill the gap.

"We rely on these vans to save lives," Furkids wrote on Facebook. "Can you help us get this show back on the road?"

“The loss of this van is a heartbreak for us and a significant blow to our organization,” Furkids founder and CEO Samantha Shelton told the AJC. “It is so upsetting that someone would take a valuable asset from a nonprofit organization that has been serving the community for 18 years."

Donations toward a new vehicle can be made on Furkids' website. People can also mail a check to 5235 Union Hill Road, Cumming, GA 30040.

Anyone who sees the van, with a Georgia license plate number of RHP8476, is asked to contact Johns Creek police.