After a devastating fire in September at Beyond the Blue Box in Cobourg – the smiles from staff are back.
“Things are looking up for sure,” said Executive Director Jane Hawthorne as staff were stocking Christmas shelves in one of two new locations in downtown Cobourg last week.
Christmas items along with clothing, books and more will be at 66 King Street East. Other items will be at 41 King Street East.
Both sites are not taking donations. Donations are still welcomed and can be dropped off at the Blue Box location on Covert Street.
The fire on September 20, 2023, “and it was devastating to the Blue Box community, to our community,” said Hawthorne.
Since then she adds that the community has been nothing short of “amazing” offering support.
“It’s been overwhelming.”
It was critical getting the Blue Box back in operation after losing the 6,500 square foot store to fire.
“We searched everywhere for comparable sizes, but there was nothing out there. Then we found two spots in downtown Cobourg, right across from one another.”
With the staff working fast and furious it’s expected both stores will be back in operation, seven days a week, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., starting on Sunday, November 12, 2023.
The store has 18 employees and Hawthorne says, “we are family.”
“When we’re together it’s a big deal. It’s always nice to come back and be able to work with, hang out with and enjoy each other.”
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
