Staff at an Essex respite centre for adults with intellectual disabilities are reeling after thieves stole recreational equipment, food, and other items from a program that teaches life skills and provides a safe, inclusive environment.
Break-in at LIFE Day Respite Program
Thieves entered the LIFE (Living in Friendship and Equality) Day Respite Program building on Fairview Avenue overnight on May 22, taking items valued at approximately $1,000, according to police.
Program co-ordinator and co-owner Sherri Currie expressed shock and dismay. "We feel violated," she said. "Why would you do this to a program where these people are already vulnerable? It's not fair."
Surveillance cameras captured four individuals entering the centre around 3 a.m. and leaving an hour later after carrying out multiple items. Stolen goods included a karaoke machine, games, a Wii console, and a significant amount of food. Currie noted the theft seemed random. "There was no rhyme or reason to what they took."
Fortunately, the thieves did not vandalize the building or damage a 50-inch smart TV and a smart board used by members. "We're just very grateful they didn't vandalize," Currie added.
Impact on Clients and Community Response
The centre serves 18 clients who attend day programs daily or weekly, learning life skills, enjoying crafts, and going on outings. The program does not receive government funding; families use government Passport Funding for respite care.
Currie described a rough weekend but emphasized resilience: "We're here for our members, and we will continue to be here for them. It's business as usual." Some clients were upset, while others did not fully understand the incident. Staff chose not to discuss it openly to avoid causing distress.
A GoFundMe campaign launched to replace stolen items raised $5,000 by Tuesday morning, toward a $6,000 goal. Currie was overwhelmed by the support from the small town of Essex. "Every time I talk about it, I cry, but it's just overwhelming."
An OPP spokesperson confirmed the investigation is ongoing.
