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A Lower Hutt food bank has been forced to turn away families in need after thieves stripped the shelves of supplies at the weekend.
The Salvation Army came to the rescue yesterday, offering support until the food bank is back on its feet with more stock.
Food bank committee chairman John Turton told the Dominion Post nearly $700 worth of donated goods had been taken.
The thieves kicked in the storeroom door and threw baby food at the walls before making their getaway.
The food bank, run by volunteers, helps about 80 families each week.
- NZPA