Words by Smiley Team
While in the UK the pandemic has brought millions of small businesses close to collapse, the same can be said in the US. Hoping to reverse this catastrophe in San Fransisco’s Bay Area, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) has partnered with local stakeholders to rescue independently-owned local restaurants with $10,000 grants.
The grants will be distributed through two newly-established programmes: the San Mateo County Restaurant, Brewery and Winery Relief Program, and the Palo Alto Restaurant Relief Grant Program.
CZI committed $1 million to these initiatives, which support restaurants impacted by the pandemic to cover anything from rent to staff wages.
Charged with organising the programmes, their director of community affairs, Andrea Jones, said: “Local restaurants are a vital part of any neighbourhood — they feed us, employ many, and are places for gathering and building community — but they are struggling to stay afloat amidst the challenges of the pandemic. As neighbours and community members, we are committed to doing our part to support these local businesses during an incredibly difficult time.”
Founded in 2015 by Mark Zuckerberg and his wife, philanthropist Priscilla Chan, CZI aims to fund initiatives tackling some of the most pressing issues facing humanity. From health issues to poverty and educational gaps, the foundation provides financial support where it believes it is most needed. Find more information about their work here.
CZI has distributed over $100 million to support vulnerable people and organisations through Covid-19. This includes $11.5 million to help Bay Area public health agencies, organisations, and educational authorities, including $1.5 million donated to local businesses.
It’s always been better to buy local, both for the environment and for supporting your community. But in times of Covid-19, it’s more critical than ever.
In the UK roughly 6 million small businesses offering 16.6 million jobs are at financial risk due to the pandemic, according to King’s Business School in London.
There are many ways you too can make a difference and help independent shops, restaurants and more through these difficult times. Check your area for local businesses and see if they are selling products online. Service providers like yoga teachers or music tutors may be offering classes via online calls. The pandemic has put businesses in a precarious position and everyone can do a little bit to help them.
