For Immediate Release
Elle Ignatowski, Communications & Media Manager, TreeFolks
Email: elle@treefolks.org | office: 512-575-2870 | cell: 316-708-2884
Austin, Texas (July 29, 2024) – We are heartbroken to have to share with you that our offices were burglarized this weekend. The break-in resulted in the theft of vital equipment and resources critical to our operations. Despite this setback, our commitment to our mission remains unwavering. TreeFolks is dedicated to continuing our efforts to expand the tree canopy in Central Texas and is taking immediate steps to recover from this incident.
Incident Overview
The burglary was discovered by staff on the morning of Saturday, July 27th. The perpetrators stole our F250 pickup truck, which came on the heels of our other pickup truck being stolen and wrecked just a few weeks ago. The burglars also gained access to our storage containers and stole several pieces of equipment, including a rechargeable lawn mower, weed wacker, chainsaw, and heavy-duty nursery carts. We are working with local law enforcement to investigate this and the prior incident.
Enhanced Security Measures
In response to the burglary, we have implemented additional security measures to protect our premises and resources. Our staff will continue to implement and strengthen our security protocol with new locks, security cameras, and motion lights Our priority is to ensure the safety and security of our staff, volunteers, and assets.
Financial Impact
Replacing two pickup trucks with pre-owned late-model equivalents will cost approximately $95,000. The total cost for the replacement of stolen equipment is about $2,000. Repairs to the two Subarus is expected to be around $400 each. The estimated total for security upgrades is $1200. Although insurance will cover some of the vehicle expenses, our total up front recovery and repair costs will be nearly $100,000.
How You Can Help
We are deeply touched by the outpouring of support from our community in the wake of this unfortunate event. The solidarity and encouragement we have received reaffirm our belief in the power of collective action and resilience.
To help us recover from this setback, we invite our supporters and the community to consider making a small donation or volunteering their time during our upcoming planting season starting in the fall.
Donations can be made at https://www.treefolks.org/donate or by contacting TreeFolks Executive Director Andrew Smiley at andrew@treefolks.org about larger gifts to aid in the recovery.
Moving Forward
We are committed to keeping our community informed as we navigate this challenging time. We will share updates via our website and social media channels. Together, we will overcome this obstacle and continue our essential work to empower Central Texans to build stronger communities through planting and caring for trees.
“This occurrence is troubling and upsetting,” said TreeFolks Executive Director Andrew W. Smiley. “Our staff, who have been working hard all summer to care for trees planted in the community and to plan for our upcoming planting season, certainly feel the extra strain this will cause. Replacing and repairing vehicles and equipment will strain our already tight budget, too. We appreciate the support from our community and remain focused on our mission.”
For more information or media inquiries, please contact Elle Ignatowski at elle@treefolks.org or 512-575-2870.
About TreeFolks
As Austin’s only urban reforestation nonprofit, TreeFolks’ mission is to empower Central Texans to build stronger communities through planting and caring for trees. Since 1989, TreeFolks has planted nearly 3 million trees in Central Texas. Our organization focuses on large-scale reforestation, riparian sapling plantings, urban tree canopy education, and the distribution of native Texas trees to surrounding neighborhoods and communities.
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