Theft at Brighten Up Toys & Games - Erin
An eventful evening a week ago has left a heavy cloud over our heads. We’ve taken time to consider the situation in our heads and hearts.
Last Thursday afternoon we had two men enter our Erin store and engage our staff in helping them look at some larger items. They then proceeded to collect and walk out with these items (valued at roughly $1100), with no intention of paying for them. This understandably left our staff member, our entire team, and the customers who were in the store at the time, uncomfortable and rattled.
We would like to thank our local OPP Officer who responded as quickly as they did, and who continues to work with us to ensure they have as much information as possible, including video footage of both men, their vehicle and a clear image of their license plate.
We are sharing this for a few reasons.
- To raise awareness that situations like this are happening in both of our communities. We are so thankful that no one was hurt. No value of product is worth putting yourself in danger.
- To encourage our customers and supporters to remove some of the power from criminals like this and put it back in the hands of small businesses, like ours. Please consider the source of your purchases, particularly online where it is easy for anyone to setup a shop and sell. We understand the convenience of being able to shop after hours and from the comfort of your home, which is why we have invested time and resources into enhancing our online presence. When you see an item that is discounted online, consider where it came from, and more importantly what may you be getting. When you choose to spend your money with legitimate businesses, particularly small ones, you are empowering real people. You are supporting real families who own and are running those businesses. You are supporting owners who are trying to do right by their employees and support their communities.
- The “Brighter” light! We don’t want to dwell on what was taken from us, because they cannot take what is most important to us - our passion, creativity, and commitment to serving our communities. We love being a part of both Erin and Fergus and helping to create memories for you and your family that will last a lifetime. We recognize our community partners who we are proud to support;
- Our Toy Drive and Pictures with Santa program, which with your support and help has collected over $75,000 of donations for local families through East Wellington Community Services and Big Brothers Big Sisters Centre Wellington over the last 13+ years.
- Our valued annual community events including Rotary Erin Family Day, East Wellington Chamber of Commerce Home Show, Fergus Lions Home Show, Cox Creek Winery Games Nights, Pictures with the Easter Bunny, Pictures with Santa, In Store Play Days, STEAM Camp, Erin Summer Jam, Erin Hometown Harvest, Erin Fall Fair, Fergus Fall Fair, Erin Rotary Canada Day, Erin Agricultural Society 175th Anniversary Celebration, Spirit of the Hills Family Fun Day, Erin Rodeo After Party, Trick or Treat Main Street, Fergus Kidstock, Erin Witches Walk, Erin Window Wonderland, and many more over our years in business.
- The dozens of the community groups and organizations we partner with through sponsorships or donations, including Wellington County Libraries, East Wellington Community Services, East Wellington Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Erin, St. John Brebeuf Catholic School, Hillsburgh/Erin Skating Club, Caledon Townhall Theatre, Town of Erin Economic Development Committee, Caledon Ski Club, Curl for a Cause, Heart and Stroke, James McQueen Public School, Belfountain Car Club, Kerri’s Place Autism Services, Highland Rugby, St. Josephs E.S., Wellington Pregnancy Care Centre, Emmanual Christian High School, Barrie Hill United Church, Salem Public School, Alton Public School, Victoria Terrace Public School, Centre Wellington Optimist Club, Art by the Pond, Centre Wellington Pride, Erin Pride, Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce, and other local schools and educational partners
- Our Toy Drive and Pictures with Santa program, which with your support and help has collected over $75,000 of donations for local families through East Wellington Community Services and Big Brothers Big Sisters Centre Wellington over the last 13+ years.
A final thought. Sadly, this type of situation has not been limited to a few large items. Theft in our businesses, especially in smaller, everyday items, has been climbing drastically in the past few years. We frequently find open packaging in the store with the contents removed. These little “freebies” add up for our business. We understand times are challenging, but please take this opportunity to chat with your kids about honesty, responsibility and respect. These will be the values that direct them throughout their lives.
Thank you for being a part of our journey for this last 13 years. We are looking forward to continuing to 'Brighten Up' your lives!
Continue reading
