3R Québec reports major losses after overnight break-in

Tashi Farmilo

A break-in at 3R Québec on Notre-Dame Street over the weekend of February 14-15 left the community food organization facing estimated losses of about $30,000 after cash, meat and equipment were stolen, according to its director of operations, Cédrika Lacroix.

Lacroix said she discovered the damage shortly after 7 am on February 16 when she arrived to open the centre. The front entrance, normally secured, was unlocked. Inside, security cameras had been torn down and a safe used to store cash had been removed.

Approximately $5,000 in cash was taken, along with employees’ personal belongings. Freezers were emptied of meat, and office supplies and work equipment were also stolen.

Gatineau police said officers were called to 297 Notre-Dame Street at about 11:45 am on February 16 for a report of a break and enter. The incident is believed to have occurred during the preceding night. The SPVG identity unit attended the scene to analyze evidence, and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the SPVG info line at 819-243-4636, option 5.

3R Québec operates a food distribution centre and thrift store serving residents across the region. Its clients include seniors on fixed incomes, students, families and workers facing financial strain. The service is open to anyone in need and is intended to address food insecurity in the community.

Despite the damage, the centre has remained open. Lacroix said staff worked to stabilize operations so that scheduled distributions could proceed and that services were continuing as usual.

The organization has launched a fundraising campaign to help offset the losses. Donations can be made at https://www.gofundme.com/f/donnez50.