Kilmarnock-based charity crowdfunding after vital equipment stolen at community hub

By Connor Duffy

A charity hub in Kilmarnock has been left without heating after vital equipment was stolen over the weekend.

Fundraisers had earlier helped install a donated air-source heat pump at The Killie Community Hub, part of a community funding initiative aimed at improving energy efficiency and comfort for users. But when staff arrived on Saturday morning, copper piping had been stolen, leaving the building cold and unusable. Repairs are expected to take at least another week before the system is up and running again.

The Killie Community Hub is part of The Killie Community, an independent charity based at Rugby Park in Kilmarnock that uses the power of football to make a real difference in people’s lives across Ayrshire. They run a welcoming hub and a wide range of programmes for all ages — from sport and wellbeing activities, to support with health, employability and social inclusion — aiming to bring people together, promote active lifestyles and tackle inequalities in the local community.

Police are investigating the theft, and the charity say that any help in getting the heat pump back in place sooner would make a huge difference to the people who rely on their support.

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Sunday, January, 11th, 2026