Support Tenants, Ronald Sargent, and Outback Leather

Outback Leather on Main St. in Laurel, MD caught fire on the morning of Monday, August 12th. We are all grateful and blessed that no one was injured during the fire and that it was put out quickly! News of this fire spread just as fast throughout the local and Outback Leather community. My father, Ronald Sargent, and his business have been a staple to Laurel's history. Through his leather craftmanship and memorable personality he has developed close relationships with nearly anyone and everyone that crosses his path from the motorcycle enthusiast, the police department, racetracks, costume design, to having items shipped from other countries to have the work provided by Outback Leather.

Ronald Sargent is not just a talented leather craftsman, but for the Laurel community he has also been a dedicated landlord and resource for many in need who have come to him when in a crisis big or small. He is a problem solver for many. So, during his own crisis you can imagine how unnatural it feels to be the one asking the community for help this time.

Outback Leather is more than just a storefront, but a home to several tenants that live on the second-floor apartments. Those of whom are now having to be relocated unexpectedly due to the fire. He is working as quickly as possible with insurance to repair and create a space that is habitable again for his tenants. But until then these community members are now having their lives flipped upside down being without a home.

I am asking the community and supporters of Ron Sargent and Outback Leather to please do what you can to help get Outback Leathers doors open again. With inflation and our current economy, I understand how difficult it is for everyone right now. It was well known that Outback Leather was listed for sale as my dad neared his dreams of retirement. With the business shut down from the fire and repairs he will not have any income coming into the business and will be unable to sell the building should a buyer come along until everything has been resolved.

With all of that aside, our priority is to help the people who are now without a home. It is a terrible circumstance especially with one person losing everything they have.

If you are unable to donate, please pass it along!