Nothing will deter volunteers Pat Ryan and Liz Harding from continuing to run the op shop Pat's Place, where all sales proceeds are donated to the charity Camp Quality, who look after children with cancer.
They have been running the South Windsor shop for 16 years but decided last month to give it up after more than $300 was stolen from the register in early April.
The thief left the 20 and 50 cent pieces in the till and only took the notes in what was the second robbery in the shop's 16 years of operation.
Owner Mrs Ryan said they wanted to shut down because they feared it would happen again and they were constantly nervous.
The 84-year-old described the act as senseless and cowardly but will remain open for the sake of the children.
‘‘It’s our home here and our heart belongs in this shop,’’ Mrs Ryan said.
"These people robbed the children and I really hope they feel bad about it. But on the bright side, we are very lucky to live in a generous community who have given us countless donations to keep us open.
"Thank you to everyone who is supporting the good work we do."