Jennifer Pittorino
The West Footscray Op shop is calling out to all community members to save its existence.
Since its opening a short nine months ago, in July 2022, the store has suffered from three break-ins and another two attempted break- ins, worsening the store’s condition more each time.
In addition to the break-ins the store has suffered from vandalism and theft, consisting of the thousands of dollars worth of security cameras as well as high quality goods that have been generously donated to the store.
Store owner and Footscray Traders Association president Pradeep Tiwari is at a loss for what to do next.
He has created a GoFundMe to raise as much money as possible to cover the installation of new cameras and money to pay rent.
“It has become extremely stressful financially, myself as well as the volunteers have had to put in money from our own pockets to pay the monthly rent,” he said.
“We are hoping to raise awareness and reach out to the people who keep coming back to our shop,” he said,
Two months ago Mr Tiwari installed a 16-camera system , now there are only six cameras remaining on the inside.
Mr Tiwari is hoping to install a camera that is sturdy enough it can’t be ripped out of the storefront.
“The message to the people who continue to break in is, if you need help we would be more than happy to give you anything during business hours through the front doors,” he said.
“The op shop was create to be a community hub, for the community , run by the community,” he said.
Mr Tiwari said the store has reached the point where further break-ins will mean closure of the community shop.
“Any donation big or small would be greatly appreciated,” he said.
Details: www.gofundme.com/f/help-our-op-shop-in-west-footscray-recover?member=261
