By KRYSTEL ROLLE, Guardian Staff Reporter

keystel@nasguard.com

The Bahamas Association for the Physically Disabled on Dolphin Drive will now have a defense against persons seeking to steal from the facility as they have just received a security system from Security Systems International Limited.

After being robbed for the fifth time in six months about two weeks ago, the center contacted the security company, who's CEO Craig Cates, used the opportunity to "give something back."

During the latest break-in a washing machine, bed linens and groceries were stolen. During previous robberies, specialized computers designed for the physically impaired, fax machines and wheelchairs were stolen. The centre has lost thousands of dollars in equipment and supplies.

The donation of the security system has erased the fear that constantly clouded the facility's personnel, Administrator Linda Smith said yesterday during the official ceremony. "The system will help us greatly, she continued. "And it will help me sleep at night."

Agreeing, Minister of Social Services and Community Development said, "A donation like this is extremely critical. It is so discomforting when somewhere you consider to be your sanctum is defaced this way and on a continuous basis. It gives you a level of comfort to know that you have in place an electronic system that will prevent such break-ins."

The state-of-the-art security system valued at $3,500, already installed, will be monitored for three years, free of charge. "After that," Mr Craig said, "we'll see what happens."

Mr Cates, said he was more than happy to donate the equipment. "These guys work really hard here to help the disenfranchised to be happy and secure and its a Labour of love for them and it was the least we could do to give something back."

All footage from the system will go back to their central station, Mr Cates explained. If there is an activation their company will notify the police.

This donation follows another hefty contribution. On Wednesday, a private citizen donated a car to the center. According to Sir Durward Knowles, the car will be sold and the proceeds used for the center's operational funds. The 2007 Honda Fit is valued at $23,000 and was donated by Helen Astarita.