Anti-Hunger Coalition Timmins closes after break-in

Timmins police are looking for three suspects after break-ins at the Rick Young Centre, targeting the Anti-Hunger Coalition and Timmins Food Bank.

The Rick Young Centre located in downtown Timmins is synonymous with helping people in need, especially those who are hungry.

The Timmins Food Bank and Anti-Hunger Coalition Timmins are the two main offices located in the building. Timmins Police say sometime between Nov. 21-24, thieves gained access to the centre.

“As a result of these break-and-enters, the Anti-Hunger coalition is at a significant financial loss,” said Det. Sgt. Kathryn Beatty with the Timmins Police Service.

Beatty said Anti-Hunger Coalition’s office suffered extensive property damage and electronic devices were stolen.

“It’s disheartening that charities (whose) goal is to help people in need, that they’ve been targeted,” she said.

“Not that all break-ins aren’t taken seriously and are difficult for businesses, but with the financial loss, it’s my understanding that they’ve now had to shut down for a period of time.”

Coalition officials said the best way to connect with them at this time is through email.

A statement posted to its social media page said they’re not giving up.

“Please know that while the office is currently closed to the public, the three of us are working hard to get back on track,” the statement said.

“We will lean on our community to help us in more ways during this time. Please stay tuned for more information but also note that we are taking some time for our mental health as well right now.”

Executive director Kelsey MacDonnell said she’s thankful for the community support received so far, including a donation from the local No Frills grocery store.

Beatty said investigators are now looking for three suspects: two men and one woman. If anyone knows who they are, they are encouraged to report them to police or Crime Stoppers.

Beatty said break-in attempts are happening at all sorts of businesses and added, even if you think exterior doors are secure, do all that you can to reinforce them.