Break-in, Flood & Translink Line Disruption Relief

Hi, My name is Allen Ingram. I am the Chef and Owner of Home on the Range Organics Ltd. based in Vancouver, BC.

We have had a terrible few weeks and a very tough last 12 months. Those who know me know I lost my wife Jackie to cancer three years ago and have been running the business independently since then. The company is now 11 years old and has won many awards, including (2nd place) Best Butcher in the Lower Mainland (last year); we were also a Finalist (with special mention) in the Made in Vancouver Awards, awarded last month. We have already been awarded the best bone broth in BC and continue to make and sell the best locally sourced healthy products.

In the last 12-14 months, we have dealt with colossal transit line disruptions that have resulted in many small businesses shutting down and many more on the verge of disaster. The city of Vancouver has done nothing to help us during this time. Access to our store is limited, and many regulars have chosen to shop elsewhere during the disruption. This disruption has meant a $100,000 loss in the last 12 months.

A few weeks ago, we had a further blow when a leak caused by a tenant working above us in our building left a toilet overflowing overnight, causing massive flood damage to our store and many thousands of dollars in lost revenues, lost products, accounting records and more. While insurance will assist with a small portion of this loss, again, we bear the lion's share of those costs.

Last weekend we were broken into, and our entire front window was smashed. Many items were stolen in the "smash and grab" break-in, including our POS computer, credit card machine and many food items. We are at a very low ebb. We need some help.

Our business has always been built around food freedom and giving access to organic, pastured, and grass-fed products raised locally and brought and sold from the store to our loyal customer base.

The funds raised will help us pay off some immediate costs associated with the break-in and flood and recoup some of the lost revenue from the transit line construction. Some expenses are $2000 new window, $750 new window signage and design, new POS machine, pay for stolen CC machine (and close account to stop fraud - $1200), and new credit card machine. A new barcode scanner ($450) and receipt printer ($400), repainting of the kitchen due to flood damage, new air conditioning units ($5000 plus install and $1000 quote), plus new front of house unit and install ($3750) that broke when the flood happened. A new gate across the window to stop glass from being smashed again. Additional funds will help alleviate some shortfalls caused by the transit line.

We would be able to provide gift cards to match any donation, should you want that (just ask us). Or if you wish to donate only, that would also be gratefully received.

With your help, we can rebuild and hopefully have a thriving 2023. Without it, I fear, we will not survive.