Cobourg’s Beyond the Blue Box Rebuilding After Devastating Fire

Photo courtesy of Jolie Manez

By: Jolie Manez

After a devastating electrical fire in September 2023, Beyond the Blue Box in Cobourg is pushing forward with their rebuild. 

“It took down the whole building,” said Executive Director Jane Hawthrone. “We had devastation, and we had to take the building down. Now we need to start from scratch.”

The thrift store has been a vital center in the community for over three decades — a place where customers could find affordability and support, and where many volunteers found purpose and routine.

Now in the process of rebuilding, Beyond the Blue Box is raising funds to restore its space and continue its dedicated work.

Kendra Simmons, the organization's Fundraising Chair, has been leading rebuild efforts and managing the aftermath of the fire — not only the physical damage to the building, but the disruption to their customers and volunteers. 

“The first thing was dealing with the shock,” explained Simmons. “Especially for our special volunteers. It wasn’t just a workplace. It was part of their daily life. We had to help them understand this was a temporary setback, not the end.”

After more than a year operating a temporary pop-up on King Street and working through unexpected delays, construction is finally set to begin soon and Beyond the Blue Box is now shifting their focus to fundraising.

There have already been signs of support, from corporate donations, community-organized benefit events, and continuous loyalty from their customers. 

“We had a huge lineup on King Street,” Hawthrone said. “People were so supportive. They still are. They don’t want the little shops. They want the store back.”

More than just a thrift store, Beyond the Blue Box has long been known for its generosity, from donating goods in emergencies, helping retirement homes, and creating opportunities for people with disabilities.

For many volunteers, it’s a place of routine, skill-building, and community — a place of purpose.

“If you can give someone a sense of purpose,” Simmons said, “you’ve given them everything they need.”

Kendra is in awe of the united resilience and determination that has emerged after the fire. The staff and volunteers are steadfastly committed to bringing the store back to their community.

“It’s not just a community shop,” Simmons said. “It’s a family.”

Anyone wishing to donate can scan the QR code found on the back of their posters. Donations are also accepted in-store or through CanadaHelps.