Thieves steal funds from Habitat for Humanity ReStore during break-in

A break-in at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Huntsville resulted in a considerable loss of funds for the local not-for-profit homebuilders. ReStore employees returned to work Thursday morning to discover the contents removed from a safe, and signs of forced entry. The charity will move forward despite the setback as Habitat volunteers install insulation nearby at the semidetached build in Huntsville.

“This theft, while substantial, will not break our resolve or stall our construction plans,” said local Habitat CEO David Morris. “We remain committed to our mission of building strength, stability and self-reliance for local families through affordable home ownership.”

The Habitat ReStore was able to return to full operation following the Ontario Provincial Police’s investigation. The Habitat for Humanity affiliate thanks the OPP for their quick response and diligent work.

UPDATE February 24, 2017: The Habitat for Humanity ReStores are getting reinforced security systems thanks to a swell of community support and the generosity of a donor. News of the break-in at the Huntsville ReStore sent an uproar throughout the community with people lamenting the robbery of an affordable home-building charity.

One community member heard about the robbery on Hunter’s Bay Radio, and immediately contacted a relative who works in commercial security systems. They have since pledged to donate the new security measures, free of charge, to Habitat.

“The safety of our staff and volunteers is of paramount importance. The security measures and policies we have in place reflect that,” said the local Habitat’s Director of Development and Communications, Britta Gerwin. “However, after the recent break-in and outpouring of community support, we are thrilled to really enhance the technology component of our current systems.”

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