Two charities that help those in need are now in need of help themselves after thieves stole catalytic converters from vehicles at their Youngstown facilities recently.

Both Easter Seals and the Salvation Army both had catalytic converters stolen recently.

Major Paul Moore told 21 News anchor Madison Tromler that Salvation Army vehicles had three catalytic converters stolen from the vehicles when a driver started one of the vehicles Glenwood Avenue facility in Youngstown Tuesday morning.

Moore said the video surveillance cameras spotted the thieves around 4:30 a.m. on November 15. 

The three vehicles which had the converters stolen included the Salvation Army's 12-passenger van, a box truck and an emergency services vans are all vital to the non-profit's daily needs. 

Moore said that the box truck is used for pick-ups from stores like Giant Eagle and for toys this time of year, and also clothing and furniture and the vans are used for the bell-ringing campaigns around the community. 

In the meantime, the Salvation Army is renting box trucks to continue their pickups for those in need.

"We'll get them fixed, but it's going to be a little delayed in getting everything done now," Moore added.

"This is our busy time of year, we are planning for Christmas... preparing to give toys out and free coats," Moore said.

Instead, he spent his morning with the police and filling out police reports. And now has to get the time and money to get the vehicles fixed.

On November 7, Easter Seals, a non-profit helping those with disabilities, had four catalytic converters stolen from its fleet at Edwards Street in Youngstown, CEO Jody Klase said. 

Klase said it will cost Easter Seals around $3,000 each to get the vehicles repaired. 

If anyone would like to help the charities are asked to the Youngstown Salvation Army at 330-746-8403 and the Youngstown Easter Seals at 330-743-1168.

Youngstown police are investigating the incidents and ask anyone with information to call 330-746-CLUE.