HILDEBRAN, N.C. -- Police are searching for a thief who broke into a charity in Burke County and stole a computer containing more than 1,000 Social Security numbers of people seeking help.

The break-in happened at East Burke Christian Ministries in Hildebran overnight. The thief broke through two doors and took off with petty cash and the laptop.

The organization has spent more than 20 years helping needy people in the community with food, clothing and bills.

Employee Carolyn Yoder was dismayed by the crime.

“It’s just an older computer, and it’s not going to bring them that much money. The problems that this could cause for Christian Ministries and our clients is great, so have a heart -- bring it back,” she said.

Employee Brenda Robbins called the theft disgusting.

“I mean, who in their right mind would come in a place like this and do something like this,” she said.

Workers said they are hoping that the thief will return the computer. In the meantime, they are working to send out letters to all their clients who had personal information on the laptop to let them know what happened.

Sheriff’s deputies are visiting local pawn shops, trying to recover the stolen laptop.

Deputies said if you are a client of East Burke Christian Ministries, you should monitor your credit for anything that looks suspicious.

Visit the Federal Trade Commission for detailed information on credit reports and how to get them free, or visit Annualcreditreport.com.