Business owners in the downtown Port Arthur area of Thunder Bay are facing increasing challenges with petty crime and theft, causing concerns about security and impacting customer confidence. Despite the stolen items being relatively small, these incidents can significantly affect the financial health of locally owned businesses.
Hailey Buosi, a co-owner of Ungalli Clothing Co., expressed frustration at the helplessness of not being able to stop shoplifters from taking valuable merchandise. In response to the escalating thefts and loitering issues, Ungalli has resorted to keeping the store locked at all times, requiring customers to ring a doorbell for entry.
Some small businesses have considered hiring security guards, but the cost can be prohibitive. Alex Shaji, owner of Bin-Go discount store, noted a high volume of stolen products each month, many of which are low-cost items. Shaji emphasizes the importance of prioritizing employee safety over protecting merchandise in theft situations.
Seeking an alternative approach, Elevate NWO, a local harm reduction and outreach agency, is promoting building relationships with individuals loitering outside businesses as a means to address petty crime. The Shared Streets Initiative, initiated by Elevate NWO in collaboration with select businesses, aims to facilitate cooperation between local businesses, service providers, and individuals facing street-related issues.
Lucas Goerzen, co-owner of Lakehead Brewing Company, highlighted the potential of the shared streets initiative to enhance employee safety by fostering a sense of community. The brewery has extended support to unhoused individuals by providing essential items like clothing and water.
The Shared Streets Initiative is structured around stakeholder engagement, data collection, problem identification, strategic planning, and implementation phases, with the program currently in its second phase. Positive feedback has been received from businesses in the area, prompting Elevate NWO to offer free Naloxone and awareness training to local businesses.