"Cash Mob" Set To Support Homestead After Break-Ins

A string of burglaries at a local convenience store has the owners considering to sell their business, but a group loyal customers want to change their minds.

had almostthat occurred late on Monday, July 23 and on Saturday, Aug. 4. Amherst Police said that they are currently investigating some promising leads to catch the criminals.

These break-ins have unnerved owners , who purchased the business from the previous owners in August 2009. The second burglary was especially disheartening, as it occured on the night of their daughter's wedding.

They are now weighing the option of selling their business due to safety concerns for themselves and their children that work there.

One Amherst resident has taken the initiative to show the Melchionda family just how much they mean to the members of the Amherst community. Kristin McCool has organized a “Cash Mob” at The Homestead Grocery & Deli (432 Boston Post Road, Amherst) on Thursday, Aug. 9 from 4-7 p.m.

A cash mob is simple: customers arrive at the business during the scheduled time and pledge to spend a set amount of money to show their support. The suggested amount of money for the Homestead Cash Mob is $20.

“We need to show Ralph & Janet how important they are to Amherst and what they and the Homestead mean to all the Amherst residents who have come to rely on and enjoy their visits to their store,” said McCool.

The possibility of the Melchionda’s selling their store was also met with sadness from fans of the Homestead on the business’ Facebook page who want to keep this beloved business and its owners in town.

“dont sell! Amherst needs you!” wrote John Theriault.

“Janet & Ralph, I am very proud of you, and the girls, for all you have done at the Homestead to make it a success. Please know I am here to support you and help you in any way I can. I love you guys. xoxo” said Ellen Casey Ebacher.

“You have been so supportive of Drew when he was in isolation, from the special food orders to allowing me show him products outside the store so he could choose what he wanted. You are so good to all the kids who come in and it's embarrassing to me that someone could do this to you. You have earned your support & we appreciate you so much!” added Jennifer Murphy D'Auteuil.

The outpouring of support has touched the family and it has made them reflect on their options.

“We are totally overwhelmed by the support and kindness we have received from our customers and the people of Amherst. You have made us feel much better. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.” they wrote on their Facebook page.

What can you spend your $20 on during the Homestead Cash Mob? Here are some suggestions:

• Stock up on snacks
• Wine from LaBelle Winery
• Local produce
• Dinner for the family from The Homestead Menu
• $20 worth of lottery tickets
• Grab a few cases of beer
• Load up on grocery items
• Fine cigars
• Richie's Italian Ice
• Green Mountain coffee
• And plenty more! A more detailed list of products can be found here.

Visit the Homestead Grocery & Deli website.