London Drugs is supporting the Vancouver Police Foundation in the wake of the June 15 riot, when officers ensured the safety of the drugstore chain’s staff.
The chain’s location at the corner of Georgia and Granville streets suffered extensive damage and at least $500,000 in lost merchandise but police were able to ensure that staff, who were originally locked in a back room, were able to get to safety.
As a thank-you for that work, London Drugs created and is selling some T-shirts emblazoned with the words, “I love Vancouver.”
Proceeds will go to the Vancouver Police Foundation. Customers are also able to donate to the foundation at London Drugs cashiers.
“We created these shirts because we know the citizens of Vancouver feel the need to express pride in the city and there is no better cause to ensure Vancouver stays safe,” said London Drugs president Wynne Powell.
He is waiting for looters and vandals to first be tried in criminal court but, if judges do not order restitution, he plans to sue those who can be identified.
“We’re currently trying to decide the most cost effective way to do it,” he told media one week after the riot.
Exactly what will be covered by insurance is still being determined because the drug store chain’s policy may provide its insurance companies with what Powell calls an “out.”
Acts of war or mass civil disobedience, such as a riot, may enable insurance companies to deny compensation.
Powell, however, contends that the damage and theft at his store was premeditated by thieves who took two hours to bash in London Drugs’ windows and then selectively take high-priced computers while leaving cheaper ones behind.
Glen Korstrom
Twitter: GlenKorstrom