The theft of a donation box from the Chewstick Foundation’s Front Street premises has been described by its founder as “unfortunate” and “surprising”.

The box, which had up to $200 inside, is believed to have gone missing between Wednesday afternoon and noon on Thursday, when a member of staff discovered it had vanished.

The money was intended to help with the cultural hub’s renovation work, which has been going on since February last year.

“We’re still trying to figure out what exactly happened,” Gavin Djata Smith, the executive director and founder of Chewstick, said.

“Our security cameras aren’t installed yet. Someone saw the opportunity and took advantage of it.”

Mr Smith said that even receiving just the stolen acrylic box back would be welcomed, as it was specially designed for the foundation and would cost money to replace.

He added that it would be “really helpful” if someone from the community would offer to install the security camera system at the venue, to help to avoid a repeat incident.

So far, Chewstick has raised $150,000 of the $300,000 needed to complete the revamp, which is taking place in two phases and when finished will feature a public space, education room and music studio.

“We’re still actively trying to raise funds,” Mr Smith said. “It’s a lot of money and it’s a very difficult time to be fundraising in Bermuda.

“But our fundraising events have proven that we’re in a good position to become sustainable, so we wouldn’t have to rely so heavily on donor support.”

Mr Smith added that he was trying to stay positive despite the theft.

“I hope that the person who took the box was in a situation where they felt it was what they had to do. Hopefully they used it positively, to enhance their life,” he said. “But at the same time, I wish people would ask for help instead of doing something like this.

“It’s challenging and unfortunate, but it’s also a sign of the desperation and the real need for resources like Chewstick, to assist where needed.

“The Government can’t do everything and the charity community can’t do everything, but together we can help to make sure that things like this don’t happen.”

• If you have any information about the stolen box, call police on 295-0011. To find out more about Chewstick, visit www.chewstick.org