A charity is hoping to bounce back after a break-in with a little help from shoppers.

Nearly £1,000 in cash and jewellery was taken from Strood Community Project in Strood High Street on the night of Tuesday, September 27.

The loss will affect the work of the charity, which includes help with welfare benefits, skills training and a food bank.

But people shopping at Co-op shops in Strood and Rochester can now help through the company’s local community fund.

Chief executive Paul Robinson said: “So many people have encouraged us since our break-in but this is a great opportunity for Medway people to support us financially. For every 100 people that spend £10 we’ll get £10 ourselves.”

Every time a Co-op member buys selected products and services, 1% of their spend will go to a local cause. Money from sales of carrier bags will also be added to the pot.

Co-op have issued new membership cards and, when shoppers first use their card, they can nominate Strood Community Project as their chosen charity.

The scheme runs until March and the charity hopes to benefit by as much as £3,000.

Shoppers can help Strood Community Project when they use the Co-ops in Borstal Street, Delce Road, Dickens Estate, or the petrol stations in City Way, Watling Street or on Medway City Estate.

The Co-op Funeralcare in Chatham High Street is also included in the scheme.

Last year the charity helped nearly 2,000 people with support including children’s exam tuition, employability support, budgeting classes and more.

A police spokesman said they were investigating the burglary between 5.20pm on September 27 and 8.45am the following day.