‘Grinch’ attempts to steal children’s toys from Surrey Christmas Bureau

Surrey RCMP say they caught a “grinch” who tried to steal toys from a non-profit early Tuesday morning.

Police say they responded to an alarm going off at the Surrey Christmas Bureau at approximately 2:15 a.m. near King George Blvd. and 102 Ave.

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They say they observed a man with a cart at the back of the building with “three large boxes full of toys.” Police add “he was ready to depart.”

The man was detained and questioned about the toys, police say. “He did not say they were for little girls and boys.”

Mounties report they seized the boxes to return to the non-profit organization and their investigation is ongoing.

“The toys were all saved thanks to the quick response of frontline members, they will surely bring joy that the kids will remember,” said Corp. Vanessa Munn.

This attempt comes at a time when the Surrey Christmas Bureau is in desperate need of more donations.

Lisa Werring, executive director of the bureau, told CityNews on Friday they “have never seen such a need.” She adds they usually get requests from 2,000 families in Surrey for help, but this year that number rose to 2,300.

Werring also explains their location is very public, which can attract crime. “Unfortunately, that may attract some attention from the grinch from time to time, but we do our best to make sure our facilities are always secure, alarmed and monitored.”

She adds that other than toy donations, they also need financial donations to support their hamper program, which gives grocery vouchers to families.

“We’ve actually had parents burst into tears out of sheer relief when they are handed those vouchers and know they can put those special meals on the table for Christmas. Those are really where the memories are made around that dining table on Christmas day, so it’s important to make that happen.”

She adds that anyone wanting to donate can visit their location in Surrey or head to their website. Werring says they are in great need of toys for girls of all ages and teenagers — which she adds is a difficult category.

“[We] make sure that every child has something to open under the tree and every parent has a wonderful meal to put on the table this Christmas,” Werring said.