The Medicine Hat Police Service (MHPS) has noted a marked increase in the number of shoplifting reports occurring at grocery stores over the past month.

Generally, the thefts have included various foods items and other necessities of life. Retail staff and police have focused on recovering the stolen items, issuing warnings and attempting to inform the individuals on local resources that are available to assist them, including providing contact information for the Medicine Hat and District Food Bank.

If you or someone you know is struggling and in need of assistance please call the Food Bank at 403-528-4313 Ext1 and leave a message. Foodbank staff will respond to you with a pick up or delivery time within 24-48 hours and they can accommodate emergency needs more quickly if required. Additionally the Brown Bag Lunch Program is available through an online portal at www.mhfoodbank.com

For a list of other available community resources please visit: http://palliserpcn.ca/Resources/Pages/Food-Shelter.aspx

Media Contact:

Inspector Brent Secondiak

Operations Division

Medicine Hat Police Service

Ph: 403-529-8410