T-shirt sales to help small businesses

By Jensen, Randy on July 2, 2020.

LETHBRIDGE HERALD

In an effort to support businesses in the region, the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce, Fully Promoted and Inspire Marketing & Media have teamed up to sell T-shirts branded with the slogan, “Won’t Blow Over.”

Proceeds from the sales of the T-shirts, which retail for $20 per youth and $25 per adult, will be directed towards a new fund that will distribute grants, not loans, to local business.

“Small businesses are the foundation of our community and our economy,” says Cyndi Vos, executive officer, Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce, in a news release. “The impact of COVID-19 has left many businesses needing resources and relief. This initiative will provide $1,000 supplemental cash grants to help as many businesses as possible meet their most pressing needs.”

Kim Peters, owner and partner of Fully Promoted, knows the struggles of some businesses as they manoeuvre through the shutdown and through the reopening.

“I have heard several stories from friends and colleagues that they just missed the qualification for government aid, and I hate to see these folks fall through the cracks. We’re pleased to be collaborating with the chamber and Inspire Marketing & Media to make a difference for some of these people.”

An ad-hoc committee has been formed to select a recipient for every $1,000 received. Applications opened Wednesday. Chamber members wishing to enter must submit a biography explaining how they have been impacted during this challenging time along with a summary detailing how the funds will be used. For more information see: http://www.lethbridgechamber.com/WontBlowOver.

The goal is to distribute five $1,000 grants. There has already been enough money raised for one grant and work continues to raising more to help Lethbridge businesses in need.

“It’s been tough on our businesses and this initiative is one way to show our business community that we are here to support them and do what we can to help,” says Janelle Wensley, owner, Inspire Marketing.

Applications will be accepted until Sept. 19 and those that have been selected to receive the grant will be announced at the Chamber’s Business of the Year Awards in October.

Those wishing to order the T-shirts can do so at: https://lethbridge.fullypromoted.ca/stores/WontBlowOver.