Clermont, Fla. – Better Life Church suffered a heartbreaking loss when a trailer filled with ministry equipment and food‑drive supplies was stolen on Sept. 7. The theft, captured on the church’s surveillance system, left senior pastor Bishop Juan Rivera and the congregation deeply saddened.
What was taken
The stolen trailer contained tables, trays, tents and other essential items used for the church’s monthly food drive, a program that has served the Lake County community for 15 years. “On a monthly basis, partnering with Second Harvest from Orlando, we have been donating 25,000 to 30,000 pounds of food every month,” Rivera said. “People from all over come to receive help.”
Police investigation
The Clermont Police Department confirmed the theft occurred on Sept. 7 and released images of two individuals believed to be connected to the crime. According to Rivera, the church’s cameras captured the suspects walking the parking lot about 20 minutes before the trailer was taken, suggesting they scoped the area before returning with a truck and hitch to remove the trailer.
Pastor’s response
Rather than focusing solely on the loss, Bishop Rivera appealed to the thieves’ conscience. “If they get to see this interview, I want them to know what they did was wrong, but we are hopeful they will do the right thing and bring everything back,” he said, adding, “I also want to let them know that we forgive them.”
Rivera emphasized that the church’s mission to feed the needy will not be derailed. “Though it is a challenge, we are going to figure it out. Some way or another the Lord will provide,” he affirmed, noting that the next food drive is scheduled for Sept. 28 and will go on as planned.
Community rallying
Members of the congregation and local volunteers have already begun organizing alternative ways to gather supplies for the upcoming drive. “We are grateful for the outpouring of support from our neighbors,” Rivera said. “Our community’s love for one another is stronger than any theft.”
Anyone with information about the stolen trailer is urged to contact the Clermont Police Department.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
