There is no question that local small businesses have been hit hard by COVID 19. They struggled to receive support via Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). There are grants and low-interest loans from federal, state, and local organizations, but these only provide a temporary umbrella. Small businesses still have rent/mortgage payments and other overhead expenses that continue to add up. The businesses who could adjust and provide essential services are only tapping a percentage of their usual clientele, as most of the customer base is doing their best to observe safe “Stay At Home” practices.
You may find a favorite shop on crowdsource sites. Two such are: Ear Wax Records, https://www.gofundme.com/f/save-earwax-records and Spoonbill and Sugartown Books, https://www.gofundme.com/f/spoonbill-love
Artists, also in the independent entrepreneur category, are performing on video platforms and asking for donations or ticket prices.
This Saturday will bring a mix of brick and mortar with live videos. Brooklyn Block Party Live will go LIVE on Saturday, May 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. here: https://bkblockparty.live/ Advertised as “Brooklyn’s first-ever digital live shopping event with your favorite local shops, restaurants, independent designers, and community organizations” viewers will participate in scheduled events that take you to a presentation of each merchant and links where you can make purchases (with discounts).
It all begins at 10 a.m. with a brunch tutorial from Lemons & Olive’s Chef, Amy Hess. She’ll demonstrate the steps to making a delicious shrimp and grits dish. Other activities are a chat on best local books from WORD Bookstore, mindful drawing with Dan DiFerdinando, a craft chocolate tour with KahKow’s Williamsburg factory, and much more. Go to: https://bkblockparty.live/ to see the full schedule.
The Greenline 