Donations stolen from Easton thrift store that supports local families

EASTON, Calif. (KFSN) -- A thrift store in Easton that provides low-cost clothing and other items to community members is dealing with the aftermath of two thefts that occurred just hours apart, involving donations intended for the shop.

Small Town Thrift, located near Fantz and Jefferson avenues, relies on donated items to serve families in need. Owner Maria Carrion said the store is especially important for families preparing for the upcoming school year.

Many residents depend on the store's affordable prices.

"Especially with the clothing being one dollar, that helps out a lot of people in the community who might not have that financial freedom to buy new clothes," said Victor G., a long-time customer.

Carrion said she regularly sees families shopping for back-to-school needs.

"I've seen a lot of families do some back-to-school shopping. I've seen a lot of kids that need shoes," she said.

According to Carrion, surveillance video from July 2 shows two separate thefts at the store. In one incident, video shows a person pulling away a large bag and loading it into a car. A few hours later, two people were seen loading items from the store's donation bin into a truck.

When Carrion saw the activity on her Ring camera, she drove to the store and confronted the individuals.

"I pulled up and said 'That stuffs not free guys' and then he said 'Well you shouldn't' have left it out then' and I'm like 'Okay?'" Carrion said.

Carrion said the donations support people who may be struggling financially, making the thefts particularly frustrating.

"It just kind of upsets me that they come and steal the stuff," she said.

The incidents come as Carrion is organizing a backpack drive for the community.

After learning about the thefts, Victor G., posted about the situation on social media in an effort to help the business.

"That's not the first time it's happened. I wanted to see if there was something I could do. I like making videos, so I thought to myself, 'Who better to help than Maria because she does so much for the community,'" he said.

In response to the thefts, Carrion said she plans to keep all donations inside the store rather than leaving some items out front. Despite the incidents, she said she intends to continue helping those who reach out for assistance.

People interested in supporting or donating to Small Town Thrift can visit the store during business hours or connect with Carrion through Facebook.

For news updates, follow Ana Torrea on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.