By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Forget pirates and secret gems—Belle River’s latest treasure spot is about sharing, smiles, and a little everyday magic.
Just off 1534 County Rd 22 sits Lakeshore Loot Trinket Trade, the town’s new “Take One, Leave One” community trading post. Founded in June 2026, it’s not your typical swap shop. There’s no cash register, no haggling, and certainly no grumpy salespeople. Instead, the guiding rule is simple: Take One, Leave One, Spread Kindness. Only bring items that are clean, safe, and child-friendly—no broken or sharp objects.
Erika Harrison, an Early Childhood Educator, started the idea after borrowing the concept from a family friend’s project in her hometown of Strathroy. She wanted to create a place where people could connect through small acts of giving and receiving.
The box itself is a cheery landmark, decorated with friendly signs: “Thank you for visiting Lakeshore Loot. From the bottom of my heart, I’m so happy you’re here,” and “Every trade tells a story. Come discover your next little treasure! Happy Trading!”
What’s inside? All sorts of tiny treasures: stickers, keychains, magnets, plushies (Squishmallows are a hit), fidgets, crystals, rocks, fossils, jewelry, crafts, mini figures, and even homemade items. There’s also a rock garden with hand-painted stones. Visitors can add their own or take one home.
The only rule: keep trades small, clean, and family-friendly. No broken toys, adult items, or mystery goo.
But Lakeshore Loot is about more than stuff—it’s built on trust and community spirit. There are no locks on the box. Adults often stop by to leave gifts or handmade trinkets, and everyone is encouraged to sign the Lakeshore Loot Logbook. Every visit is unique. “I believe in the goodness of our community,” says Harrison, 24. “Visitors are asked to trade fairly, be kind, and treat the post—and each other—with care. The hope? That in a world full of locked doors and online deals, Belle River can prove that kindness is its own reward.”
It’s also a way to reduce waste. Instead of tossing out old toys, children can pass them along to others who will appreciate them. “Some people just throw toys away. This helps kids understand that passing things on is a great way to give to others who may not have them.”
Harrison is looking for more ways to spread kindness. She’s working on assembling bags of toys for drop-off at women’s shelters, homeless shelters, and hospitals to give children in difficult situations something to enjoy.
Word is spreading. “I’ve had people from all over, not just Essex County, visit and sign the logbook,” says Harrison. “People have come from Ridgetown all the way to Sault Ste. Marie. Much of what I do is shared through word of mouth and social media.”
So next time you’re in Belle River, bring a trinket, leave a trinket, and maybe pick up a little happiness. Don’t forget to sign the logbook and become part of the story.
“I love doing this… it makes me smile,” says Harrison. “It’s kind of magical and very fulfilling.”
Find Lakeshore Loot on TikTok (@Lakeshore.Loot) and Facebook for the latest stories and treasures. Who knows? Your next favourite memory might be waiting inside.