Thieves Hit Joplin, Mo. Disaster Recovery Center

The directors of a Joplin disaster resource center say rumors that the center is closing are not true.

Someone has been distributing a flier saying the Joplin Family Worship Center’s Disaster Resource Center is closing.

Spokesman Lowell Lane says the flier also incorrectly tells people that they should help themselves to its supplies.

Lane says the bogus fliers might be connected to a theft at the center. He says on Thursday night someone took large quantities of packaged food and drink items and 40 to 50 boxes of clothes. He says he suspects the items will be resold.

Joplin police are investigating the thefts.

The Joplin Globe reports that center has helped more than 21,000 people since the May 22 tornado.