Fundraiser launched to help Sooke tech shop recover from break-ins

A community fundraiser has raised nearly $4,063 in the last few days to help secure Gadget Tree Tech

Fundraiser launched to help Sooke tech shop recover from break-ins Published 5:30 pm Tuesday, July 14, 2026 A community fundraising campaign has been launched to help Sooke’s Gadget Tree Tech install new security measures after the electronics repair shop was repeatedly targeted by break-ins. The GoFundMe campaign, titled Save Gadget Tree Tech; Sooke’s Go-To for Tech Help, was created by Susan Jones on behalf of owner Alexander Kingston, with his knowledge and support.

The fundraiser is seeking $15,000 to help pay for a commercial -grade metal roll-down security gate that organizers say would better protect the storefront after seven break-ins, including five since April. According to an update posted on the campaign, donors contributed $2,885 within the first two days, putting the fundraiser nearly 20 per cent of the way toward its goal. As of Tuesday, July 14, $4,063 has been raised to support Gadget Tree.

“We’re blown away,” Jones wrote in the update. “Every donation, every share, every kind comment matters to Alex right now.” Organizers say the existing front entrance has been repeatedly damaged and cannot be easily replaced because of the building’s unusual dimensions, aging foundation and planned future redevelopment.

They added that while the property’s landlords have been supportive, insurance coverage has not been enough to fund a long-term solution. Instead, the campaign aims to fund an interior metal security gate that rolls down from the ceiling and locks into the floor, preventing intruders from accessing the storefront by smashing the glass door. If Gadget Tree Tech has ever helped you out, here’s your chance to return the favour,” the campaign states.

“Anything helps, even just sharing this.” The fundraiser follows months of repeated break-ins that Kingston previously said had pushed the business to the brink. As previously reported by Sooke News Mirror, Kingston estimated the business had suffered about $30,000 in combined inventory losses and property damage after multiple break-ins over six weeks.

He said stolen electronics, smashed windows, damaged doors and an attempted arson had left the business struggling to absorb mounting repair costs and insurance deductibles. At the time, Sooke RCMP confirmed officers had responded to multiple incidents at the business, including break-and-enters and an attempted arson, and said investigations remain ongoing. Despite the repeated incidents, organizers say the response from the community has been encouraging, with donations and messages of support continuing to arrive as the campaign gains momentum.