Relief on the way

Over 40 local businesses will receive much-needed assistance because of the efforts of many through the One Town Business Recovery Grant.

The first round of recipients were announced on Wednesday by Downtown Kenosha Inc. 

The organization collected nearly $300,000 nationally from over 1,200 donors in response to the aftermath of the Aug. 23 officer-involved shooting of 29-year-old Jacob Blake.

“Thank you again to the community who has rallied together in this great time of need. These grants are just one step in a long road to recovery. ”

Alexandria Binanti, Downtown Kenosha Executive Director

“Thank you again to the community who has rallied together in this great time of need,” Downtown Kenosha Executive Director Alexandria Binanti said. “These grants are just one step in a long road to recovery. We at Downtown Kenosha, Inc. are committed to being a small part of positive change for our beautiful city in any way possible.”

DKI opened its application period for funding and announced its finance committee for scoring on Oct. 5. Grants were awarded in the amounts of $1,000 to $10,000 based on consideration of requests and property damage, according to Binanti.

Every dollar raised was made possible through the generosity of citizens supporting the city of Kenosha.

Direct contributions from banks and other corporate sponsors, supporting non-profit organizations, local small businesses, caring citizens, and even youth who designed a book for sale and held lemonade stands all contributed towards this program’s success. 

Matching campaign sponsors included: Bear Real Estate Group, Care Animal Hospital of Pleasant Prairie, Gateway Mortgage Corp, Jockey Int., Johnson Financial Group, Kenosha.com, and State Bank of the Lakes.

These matching funds were followed by larger fundraisers spearheaded by Herzing University and The Stella Hotel & Ballroom.

DKI is still fundraising until the end of 2020 for a secondary phase of assistance for local businesses. This second round will re-open the week of November 30. For additional information, visit downtownkenosha.org.

The Businesses Awarded Are: