SHELBY, N.C. (WBTV) – A Shelby-based nonprofit created to help Hurricane Helene victims said thieves stole toys from their warehouse that were intended to be donated to area children.

More Hurricane Helene coverage here

Mountain Rescue NC confirmed the toys had been collected ahead of their Operation Magic Mountain Toy Drive. Now in its second year, the drive benefits children across Western North Carolina.

Volunteers took to social media after discovering the toys had been stolen, asking the community to “Join us in proving that love, generosity, and faith will always rise above darkness.”

This year’s collection dates will run from Nov. 10 through Dec. 10 with toy drop-off locations to be announced in the coming weeks.