Arsonist Destroys 1,500 Lbs. Of Donated Clothing, Housewares At Downriver Thrift Store
LINCOLN PARK (WWJ) - Police are searching for an arsonist after three St. Vincent de Paul donation bins containing over 1,500 pounds of clothing and household goods were destroyed by fire.
Staffers discovered the donations and the bins burnt to a crisp when they arrived to work Monday morning at the charity's thrift store and donation center on Fort Street in Lincoln Park.
"We're just distraught over this; just the fact that somebody would do that," spokesperson Michelle St. Pierre told WWJ's Lauren Barthold. "I guess that people just don't realize that we really rely on those donations to help the neighbors in need."
St. Vincent de Paul is working with Lincoln Park officials to find those responsible.
In the meantime: "We're currently asking the public if they can give us anything, donate and give us their gently used clothing, household goods. They can drop it off at any of our 11 St. Vincent de Paul thrift stores and donation centers. Or we're also taking monetary donations to help us replace the bins, which were quite expensive," said St. Pierre.
Police did not immediately release information about possible suspects but said they are looking for at least one arsonist in connection with this crime.
Anyone with information is urged to call Lincoln Park police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP. Tips may also be submitted anonymously www.1800speakup.org; or text CSM and your tip to 274637.