### Oasis Celebrates Return of Stolen Food Truck After Community Effort
Cardiff’s Oasis Centre, a charity renowned for its tireless work supporting asylum seekers and refugees, has managed to recover its much-loved food truck after it was taken in a theft earlier this spring. The organisation, which is based in the Splott area of the Welsh capital, expressed its gratitude to the South Wales Police and the local community for their swift and determined response that eventually led to the trailer’s safe return.
The food trailer, instantly recognisable by its vibrant blue colour, went missing in the early hours of 5 April. For many at Oasis, its disappearance proved to be a blow – not just because of the loss of equipment, but due to the food truck’s critical role in both fundraising and community engagement. Its absence was felt acutely as staff and volunteers prepared for one of the busiest times on their annual calendar.
Oasis shared the welcome news of the recovery on its social media platforms on 15 May, more than a month after the original theft. In their update, they announced, “We are delighted to share that South Wales Police have been successful in tracking down our food truck and brought it back to Oasis today. We hope this will lead to justice for those who stole it. At the moment we’re assessing the damage and then will consider our next steps.” This message was met with an outpouring of relief and support from followers and residents across Cardiff.
Launched in 2022, the Oasis food truck rapidly became a fixture at community gatherings, providing both Middle Eastern and Latin American cuisines. It has done more than simply supply food to hungry Cardiff residents – it has offered a vital lifeline for Oasis’ core clientele. Refugees and asylum seekers have used it as a springboard for new skills, gaining practical work experience and building confidence as they settle in Wales.
The loss of the truck did not just present a challenge for the charity’s financial sustainability. Chief Executive Susie Ventris-Field described how staff discovered the theft early on a Sunday morning, noting the emotional impact: “It’s a real shame right now – it’s so sunny out so we would’ve been reopening this week. We are coming into the time of year when our food trailer would be going out to events, weddings, and festivals.” With the start of spring marking the beginning of festival and events season, the financial implications for Oasis were significant.
Oasis’ food trailer has played an essential part in the charity’s presence, helping to foster connections not only within Cardiff but throughout communities across Wales. “It’s been a bit of a staple of Oasis, an opportunity for us to make really good connections with not just local communities but communities across Wales,” Ms Ventris-Field added, highlighting the impact the trailer’s absence had on local morale and the wider charitable mission.
In their statement, Oasis acknowledged the wider community’s contribution towards recovering the trailer. The organisation made a particular point of thanking individuals and groups who helped by sharing online appeals, stating this support was “essential” to seeing their beloved truck returned. The charity is currently evaluating the condition of the trailer to determine necessary repairs before it’s put back into service.
Despite the incident, Oasis reiterates its unwavering commitment to its work. “Food is and always will be at the heart of Oasis,” said Ms Ventris-Field. “Our commitment to providing food will continue to be a big part of what we do.” The return of the food truck is seen as a symbol of the organisation’s resilience and the solidarity of its supporters.
South Wales Police have been approached for a comment regarding the ongoing investigation, though as of now, further details about the search and recovery operation remain limited.
The wider community, both in Splott and across Cardiff, has been thanked once again for its role. The episode serves to highlight the vital nature of cooperation between the public, local organisations, and police in the face of adversity. As Oasis looks to the future, their food truck’s return marks not only the recovery of valued property, but a victory for community spirit and charitable endeavour.