Break-in, Vandalism Destroys Los Banos Shop's Inventory

A Los Banos shop is trying to recover after its merchandise was destroyed and its property vandalized during a recent break-in.

My Hippie Soul, a small-business boutique with a downtown storefront, was left with no inventory after the break-in over the weekend, according to shop owner Mariana Nieves.

A GoFundMe fundraiser has been created to help the shop at 625 J St. recover.

"Unfortunately, my insurance is not covering the costs for the break-in," said Nieves, who said she discovered the crime early Sunday morning. "It's heartbreaking."

The thieves and vandals "made sure to ruin absolutely everything," she said

Nieves and her family also organize The Artisan Market in Los Banos, a pop-up vendor fair held adjacent to My Hippie Soul, which sells jewelry, women's clothing and accessories. Nieves said she has been in business since 2020, first selling online and then during pop-up events. She opened the shop on J Street in November.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the fundraiser had raised $3,675 out of a goal of $10,000.

"My Hippie Soul's support for other small businesses and the opportunities created through this market are immeasurable," the GoFundMe says. "Mariana and her family have become a pillar in the Los Banos small-business and vendor community."

Nieves said she filed a report with the Los Banos Police Department, but hadn't heard back as of Wednesday afternoon.

Article Originally Published At: https://www.yahoo.com/finance/small-business/articles/california-oldest-continuously-family-owned-234010554.html