A neighbourhood dry cleaner in N.D.G. that was broken into twice in a week recently is getting a helping hand through an online crowdfunding campaign started by a longtime customer.
"[The owner's] reserves to be able to absorb unexpected expenses to related to two break-ins were just not there, and I just felt compelled to see if we could do something to get her through this difficult patch," said Russell Copeman, former mayor of Cote-des-Neiges-N.D.G. and a customer of Sherbrooke West Dry Cleaner and Tailors for about 15 years.
According to Copeman, Young Sook Suh—or “Sue” as she is known to customers—is the sole owner and employee.
"She is tremendously hard-working," he told CJAD 800. "The store's open about 57 hours a week, and she is pretty much solely responsible for that."
Copeman started a Gofundme campaign to raise money to help Suh pay the cost of repairing her storefront for a third time, as well as installing bars on the glass.
He says Suh originally protested, that "other people are much worse of than she." Eventually, he wore her down.
In the span of 24 hours, nearly $900 of the campaign's $1,500 goal were raised.
The former borough mayor says the support so far has been wonderful.
"I just wanted to try and help, I have a lot of time on my hands these days. you know, before the events of last November I wouldn't of had the time to do this sort of thing.
Anyone looking to donate can do so here.