Suspected thieves have been slammed for stealing "from their own community" after a charity which provides free meals for children was reportedly broken into.
Speke Adventure Playground, on Conleach Road, said it was the target of a burglary on Saturday evening, which caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.
A spokesperson for the community hub, which has helped families for four decades, said money was stolen, glass was smashed and shutters were damaged in the raid.The ECHO has approached police for more information.
A Facebook post by the charity, which has been described as a "pivotal service" for those in need, read: "I’m so upset having to post this but last night the Venny was broken into.
"They have caused a large amount of damage as well as taking a significant amount of money.
"For those that don’t know we provide services like free meals for children every night. This break-in will effect the vulnerable children the most.
"First Five Families and now us, these are local people stealing off their own communities!
"Someone must know who is involved, if you have any information let us or Merseyside Police know."
Manager Paula Shaw told the ECHO the centre, which offers free meals every night, had held a session on Saturday at about 9pm.
Paula said she suspects the break-in took place only hours after.
She added: "We've been operating for over 40 years and because of the amount of people that come through here, it's more than likely someone who has done this knows a family who have used the service.
"It's like they've stolen from their own family."
Paula said she was alerted that there had been a break-in after a member of the public walked past and saw damage to the property.
She said: "It's going to have a big effect on the community. We provide free meals every night, we organise trips in the summer holidays.
"Since last September we've provided over 3,000 free meals."
Ms Shaw said the local community in Speke had been "really supportive" but she said she could not confirm when the centre would open again because of the damage, although she is working tirelessly to make it as soon as possible.
In response to the alleged burglary, a gofundme page has been set up to raise funds for the Venny. It can be viewed here.
