When talking to neighbours, Manly said no one saw anything Friday night when the panels were taken.

The loss of the panels is a major blow to Nanaimo Foodshare.

“It took us a long time to get that fundraising done and a lot of effort from different organizations to make this happen,” Manly said. “We work hard for every penny that comes into this organization and we’re very careful about how that money is spent. It goes towards making sure we have nutritious food for the most vulnerable in our community.”

The panels were part of a project demonstrating the viability of solar energy as an energy source. It also paid 25 per cent of Foodshare’s energy bill, helping keep their industrial fridge and freezer running.

“It was a gift…which kept on giving for this organization. And now half of it’s gone.”

The solar panels have serial numbers and Manly asked anyone having panels installed to check the serial numbers and inquire with RCMP about them.

RCMP confirmed it’s likely the panels were taken to be installed elsewhere, since they’re difficult to sell online or at pawn shops.

Cst. Gary O’Brien said while there are no indications of who committed the theft at this time, it’s very likely someone saw the theft since it was visible to the road and would have taken at least an hour.

Despite the heavy loss, Manly said there’s hope a good Samaritan will help Foodshare.

“Just drop them off here and leave us a note, no questions asked, because it’s important for us.”

If anyone knows anything about the theft they’re urged to call Nanaimo RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit