Push is on to support neighborhood businesses
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August 3, 2011Local businesses need your support — and deserve it.
They are at the heart of each community in this borough and represent the livelihoods of your family and friends.
Though Staten Islanders have grown to be loyal customers of the mega-retailers that have put down roots in the borough, the nationally-based stores have not been nearly as generous, in return. In fact, according to a survey conducted by the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC), big-box stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot, and chains like CVS and Staples, gave only a total of $107,318 — $35,777 annually — to local not-for-profits between 2008 and 2010.
There is a move afoot to change this dynamic by the SIEDC and Rep. Michael Grimm (R-Staten Island/Brooklyn), but you, too, can make a difference.
As part of a grassroots campaign that originated in Minneapolis, the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce is asking people to pick three independently owned Island businesses and spend a monthly total of $50 among these establishments.
