Lending A Helping Hand In A Time Of Need
The global pandemic crisis we are experiencing is impacting every person on the planet. Never in our lifetime have we seen such an all-encompassing issue, and yet we believe there are positive learnings to be taken away from this abrupt realization of our interconnectedness. Read our previous blog post for more on that.
Our brand is built upon the ideals of human compassion and creative problem solving so we’ve been thinking of areas we can get involved to help ease the burden in simple but meaningful ways.
One of the biggest issues that has arisen during this time is the economic hardship being experienced by employees of small businesses.
Nearly HALF of all US employees work at small businesses, and as a fellow small business we can empathize personally with this. We also know this is a time needing radical community and support for each other.
So, we want to use what we have to help.
Over the next 4 weeks (at least), we will be selecting a small business that has been especially impacted by this current health crisis to receive 50 FREE custom t-shirts from us. While doors are shuddered and business close, online stores are becoming a way for the community to continue to support their local shops.
We are also getting other small businesses involved who can help and want to shout out our friends at Miir and Slightly Choppy for offering your support thus far. Any other business want to get involved?
We selected our first winner this week! Move Inclusive Dance is a studio in Nashville, TN “that empowers individuals of all ability levels to learn life skills through dance“. They will receive a custom merchandise pack from KNOWN SUPPLY & Miir valued at $2,500+ (50 custom t-shirts and 40 custom camp cups).
Nominate a business in your community that has been especially impacted by the current health crisis. (And this includes creative businesses and musical artists too.) Let us know!
Comment below to nominate a business or head to THIS INSTAGRAM POST.
Lastly, we recognize the need for assistance is far greater than who we can gift merchandise to, so we want to invite all small businesses to apply to become a #KNOWNSUPPLIER. We will provide discounts on our fair trade certified t-shirt blanks and other products to all small businesses for the foreseeable future. Click the button below and mention this post when you apply.
COMMENTS
Michael S. Crockett
March 24, 2020
I nominate Willow & Olivia in West Orange, NJ
Gia, the owner has become a good friend and her bakery is in trouble. If I could help her singlehandedly I most certainly would. Please consider #willowandolivia
Alex
March 24, 2020
April Blooms - aprilblooms.com
Meghan Vitrano
March 24, 2020
Flux Coffee Shop in Farmingdale, NY
Christina Catherman
March 24, 2020
I nominate the Sweet Taco in Willow Grove, PA. My favorite taco restaurant! They also sell donuts! They are a unique staple in our community. They recently had to close during this time, not even able to stay open for takeout. This opportunity would help them get over the hump and hopefully open again soon!
Kelly Burton
March 24, 2020
I nominate Jess Schreiber and FABSCRAP from NYC- the nonprofit helps NYC deal with textile waste. Essential services only means she can’t do pickups which means she can’t make money to pay her staff of 6
Kristen
March 24, 2020
I nominate Better and Company in Astoria, NY
https://www.betterandcompany.com/
Janna M
March 24, 2020
I'd like to nominate Felius Cat Cafe in Omaha, Nebraska! They are a wonderful cozy place for cat cuddles, and all of the resident cats are available for adoption (excepting the mascot, Marquette)! They also coordinate vet care and foster homes for many other cats and kittens. And the coffee and cat-themed macarons are purrfect!!
Jenna
March 24, 2020
YoBa Studio in Raleigh, NC
Taylor
March 24, 2020
https://www.constellationco.com/ a small woman owned letterpress shop in Seattle.
Alex
March 24, 2020
Wersell's Bike and Ski shop in Toledo Ohio!
https://wersellsbikeshop.com/
Leeanna Maniace
March 24, 2020
I nominate The Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre in Hurleyville, NY . This company is now struggling because all events are closed and who knows when people will be able to go to live shows or movies. Everything is on hold so now the Arts Centre is not making any income while having to keep up with the costs of bills and paying o\for their on salary employees. The Arts Centre supports small and growing artists. The arts Centre is very handicap accessible and is in support of the LGBT+ community. People can come here for Yoga at The Yoga space, Dance at Main St. Dance, movies in the cinema, and performances in the Ballroom. Any support/donation would be so helpful keeping the HPAC afloat during these challenging times.
Christina
March 24, 2020
Blkgrn.com Dr. K has launched this holistic wellness + lifestyle platform that honors Black beauty and artisanship in a way that gives me hope for all women and the future we're stepping into. All of their products are made by Black female artisans who create the most beautiful products for hair, skin, feminine care and wellness that is enjoyed by all. Dr. K and her team are still making a comeback from her recovery from a horrific car accident that left her in a coma. And she came back up, and gaining more momentum would mean the world to her and the BLK+GRN community (PS: You are considered a member of the community if you support non-toxic products made by talented yet disenfranchised women brave enough to launch their own business). This is their Rocky moment. Adriennnnnn!
Julia Rose Neff
March 24, 2020
I'd like to nominate RooPottery. A small business that makes ceramic mushrooms, and ceramic garden accessories. Everything is handmade and the shop supports several families. They are struggling as this is garden season approaches things have slowed down. @roopottery
Alexis
March 24, 2020
I would like to nominate Vynil Fantasy in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY.
They are a record/comic book shop that also carries awesome tshirts and accessories. , Unfortunately, they had to close the store on Saturday, 03/21, due to the coronavirus. Not only does one of the owners work there full time, but her other business has also taken a huge hit due to the virus. She owns Park Slope Pups, a dog walking/pet sitting service. Both businesses are a huge part of the communities they are in. At Vynil Fantasy, they support local artists by selling and displaying their art in their store. So not only did a small shop get hit, but their employees are out of work and the local artist that sold their work there out. It would be super awesome to help their business with these shirts, for them to have stock on items that would sell and to not have to worry about how much and money!
Paige Metzheiser
March 24, 2020
I nominate Baking Mama in Hoboken, NJ. They are a small bakery with the most delicious treats and have always been there for the community. Would love to give them something back now!
Jeanine R. Laferriere
March 24, 2020
I nominate Hunny Prints, owned and operated by Lindsey Rubino. Her company provides hand made invitations and day-of-Party essentials. Lindsey Rubino is a very talented designer who can supply all of your printing and invitation needs with style and class! Hunnyprints.com
Claire
March 24, 2020
I nominate Jefferson's Coffee in Hoboken, NJ
Sara D
March 24, 2020
Sugar Threads! Awesome owner, sells local and environmentally sourced or American made clothing and accessories. She is facing closing due to this situation!
Shelly
March 24, 2020
Purdys Coffee Co. a family owned coffee shop in KY. They bring light to many in this small town.
http://www.purdyscoffee.com/
Kate
March 24, 2020
I nominate Jewel’s Cafe in Phoenix, AZ. They are a family-run, dedicated gluten free restaurant doing everything they can to keep the doors open. It’s one of my favorite restaurants- food is great and I can eat there without worry of cross-contamination. http://jewelsgfcafemenu.com/
KellyMac
March 24, 2020
I nominate Pacific Edge climbing gym. Unlike the corporate monstrosities that are becoming the norm, the Pacific Edge is a small town gym still owned and operated by the people who built it 26 years ago. Tom and Diane have built an incredible community here and have pulled out all the stops to help their employees get through this, but until we can all climb together again they have zero source of revenue.
Cassie
March 24, 2020
I nominate Make Time in Santa Fe, NM. They offer activities for kids and adults - after school kids programs, STEM activities, and everything from beer making to pottery classes for adults. They are a place where the community comes together. https://www.maketimeeldorado.com/
Amy
March 24, 2020
I would like to nominate The Sparrows Coffee Tea & Newsstand in Grand Rapids MI (@thesparrowsgr on Instagram!). I have long frequented the cafe and began working there two years ago - they are such a joy to work for. It is most definitely a staple in the neighborhood, and truly cares for its staff and community! A small shop with a whole lot of heart that is unfortunately having to face lots of uncertainty and financial hardship. All staff have had to be laid off while the cafe is closed, and they are currently relying on online coffee and merch orders and fundraising to make it through!
Sabrina Parsley
March 24, 2020
Rose Bredl is a beautiful garden and flower shop small business in Columbus, Ohio.
Mary, the owner, is passionate, kind, generous, and loyal to her clients, customers, and friends.
Her products and services are above and beyond. Classic and quality.
@rosebredl
Rose Bredl.com
Thanks!!!
Melissa
March 24, 2020
I nominate Wolf's Brew Coffee in Long Beach CA. They are a small family business that brings so much joy and community to the city of Long Beach. They are supporters of all things local and deserve some sunshine in this storm.
Keelin Manning
March 24, 2020
I want to nominate James G Music. James recently opened his music store and has given many people the opportunity to learn to play an instrument, to buy instruments, or just to have a place to hang out. He is so generous. I bought a pair of $5 dollar strings for my guitar and he put the new strings on my guitar and oiled the fret board for free. He really cares about his customers and he is a very talented musician who is passionate about what he does. With everyone staying home, that means less customers and less people taking lessons. I want his store to thrive and continue despite the coronavirus!
https://www.jamesgmusicstore.com/
Dianne
March 24, 2020
Austin tea Xchange. Austin Tx
Ale
March 24, 2020
Arabica Coffee, Elgin IL
Morgan O
March 24, 2020
I nominate Groovy Donuts in Williamston, MI! Small donut store where everything is made by the two owners. They work around the clock and often are in the store from 9pm to the next afternoon.
Jenna
March 24, 2020
Cayucos Coffee cayucoscoffee.com
It's a local coffee shop for my town of just about 2,000 people... no tourists around right now to generate much income. I love them, the atmosphere, and all the locals need 'em to stay open!
Angela
March 24, 2020
I would like to nominate Anam Cré a small woman own company ceramic studio in San Luis Obispo, Ca.
Katie
March 25, 2020
Cast Iron Coffee - Dekalb, IL, The owners, Kyle and Daria Mason have been working to open up their coffe shop just in time for spring break. The closing of businesses will deeply impact them moving forward, and pushes their open date back, preventing them from income for rent space in addition to other expenses. Check them out! @Castiron.coffee
Samantha Reisman
March 25, 2020
I nominate The Creative Music Center: https://www.thecreativemusiccenter.com. They are an incredible resource for their community (Monroe, CT), providing music lessons/rentals/instruments for children and adults across the states. They work very hard to put the arts first in communities where students may otherwise not have access to instruments or be able to pursue artistic ventures. They give back to their community regularly, and currently can only do online lessons. A huge percentage of their business involves interested folks to go to the store and explore their desire to play music with their encouraging and knowledgeable employees. If this store were to shut during this time, hundreds of students will lose access to musical instruments and lessons, bringing their music education to a halt and putting teachers out of work who have dedicated their lives to teaching others the joy of music.
Ally Lim
March 25, 2020
Tenfold Coffee - https://tenfoldcoffee.com/
They have an amazing vision for quality, sustainability and hospitality. They have already had to jump through so many hurdles to get their cafe open in Houston, TX, and the virus is yet another challenge that they're up against.
Marissa Sperry
March 25, 2020
Studio 3.6 in Charlottesville, Virginia
It is a woman owned small business that I love so much! Leah is a single mom and an amazing business owner! She would do anything for her employees and her daughter and really needs the help right now to stay afloat after the State-Mandated closure of her business.
Megan Waddell
March 25, 2020
Hands Producing Hope out of Baton Rouge, Louisiana
https://www.handsproducinghope.org/
Arianna Vranas
March 25, 2020
I nominate the South Loop Club in Chicago, IL. It's a neighborhood sports bar that was opened in 1988.
https://www.thesouthloopclub.com/
Max
March 25, 2020
Maine Surfers Union in portland, maine
Anthony
March 25, 2020
I nominate: Peloton Cafe in Seattle, WA. The heart of a community, run by amazing people. The are so generous, outgoing and helpful when things aren't tough, even more so during these hard times. They're digging in and making a go of it and doing an amazing job at it, but with all pivots in business, it's got to be challenging to say the least. There's literally no more deserving humans out there than the good folks at Peloton When we're all out of this mess, something like this contest would provide them with some great stuff that helps move the needle going forward. Thanks for doing this! You and MiiR are amazing!!!!!!!
Mandy Lozano
March 25, 2020
I nominate Peloton bike shop in Seattle! Not only do they run a small shop with rad bike repairs (and a consistent stream of live bicycle races on the really), but they make AMAZING food. I always hit up their cafe for brunch and a good cup of coffee. Their attitude of being a small, local shop with a focus on inclusiveness & community makes a huge difference, especially during these times. They have innovated in their offerings during COVID19 and do take-out meals. I love this shop and want them to survive this pandemic and continue to be a pillar of the independent Seattle bicycle (and eating) scene! @pelotonseattle
Andrew
March 25, 2020
I nominate Peloton in Seattle. Great bunch of folks that drive a great community.
Rachel Rasmussen
March 25, 2020
I nominate Cat & Cloud coffee in Santa Cruz! They are on a mission to leave people happier than when they found them and they do it every. Single. Day. I love seeing the impact they make on the city and the coffee community as a whole!
Ric Cochrane
March 25, 2020
Peloton Bicycle Cafe in Seattle! Best crew, best mechanics, best food. They hustle hardest.
Spencer Mahaffey Lightfoot
March 26, 2020
Cirque Boutique + Remedy Cafe
A unique model with a boutique and restaurant housed in our tiny downtown. Cirque and Remedy always support our community whether in always giving the donation asked for, showcasing local musicians and artists, buying from local farms, carrying local handcrafted goods or this week providing free nutritious locally sourced lunches for our school kids. I’d like to see them get a little support in return, this tragic time has taken so much. In our tiny community of 1500 a setback like this is devastating. Owned by two of the strongest, kindest women I know this is an endeavor worth lifting up!! Thank you Known Supply for using what you have to support others. This is definitely an effort I am going to pay forward!!
www.cirquecyclery.com
www.remedyjuicebarcafe.com
Ben
March 26, 2020
Bandit Coffee Co in Saint Pete, FL. A couple, straight out of year-1 marriage built something beautiful from the ground up for their community. The current circumstance is rough for small business but they've been incredibly adaptive. Hoping to help while I can't financially myself.
Kayla Younglove
March 26, 2020
I nominate the team at Ferguson Downtown in Las Vegas. Not only are they committed to sustainable business practices & work towards eco friendly offerings, they do incredible work for our community curating local businesses, creatives & vendors. They truly care about small business in the Las Vegas community. They’re amazing.💖
Amanda Miller
March 27, 2020
I nominate The Poppy Press Coffee Company in Hazleton, PA.
Amanda Miller
March 27, 2020
I nominate Alabaster Coffee in Williamsport, PA.
Amanda T
March 29, 2020
Fidel & CO in Little Rock, AR! We’re a new specialty coffee shop that’s partnered with a farm in El Salvador. There so much passion and care that goes into what we do from every individual working at F&C, and it would mean the absolute world for not just the business, but the community that we serve, and the community of the farm we’re partnered with if we were nominated. Thank you guys for what you’re doing and how you’re making an impact during this crisis. ❤️
Tim
March 29, 2020
I nominate Crafted: The Art of the Taco. eatatcrafted.com. Kris and mom had to close their two local restaurants in respond to the COVID-19 outbreak. They could really use the help.
Martin Sanchez
March 29, 2020
Amór Kombucha from Stockton, CA! Great brand and product promoting leading the love! They are a staple and beacon of light in the community and this situation that we all face has stopped access to be a vendor in events.
Michelle Ciesielski
March 30, 2020
I nominate my favorite downtown used book store, Book Marx in Springfield, Mo! Almost went out of business late last year, but was able to push through. Has great book clubs, offers a fantastic selection of used and new books, and it’s just one guy running the place, with his cat! He also recently gave out free books to anyone that lost their job due to COVID before having to close due to the city mandate. His Facebooks posts always brighten my day!
Anisha
April 2, 2020
I nominate Chicfashic (@chicfashic) which is a platform promoting sustainability and human rights by allowing users to buy, rent, sell and swap clothes in an eco-friendly way! They also organise many events in the community including clothing swaps, workshops and vintage sales which really brought like-minded people together :)
Christina
April 2, 2020
I nominate The Neighborhood, a trendy and completely unique store that is owned by an amazing 20 year old named Austin! His energy is so welcoming and his drive to work is out of this world. Times hit hard for him when Illinois shut down. @shoptheneighborhood
Steve
April 8, 2020
I nominate Surf Locals. It’s a small clothing brand based in South Africa. It has gotten a lot of attention and love but this is a difficult time because the South African government isn’t giving anything to small businesses during this time. Thanks
Bo
April 8, 2020
I nominate Changing Hands Bookstore in Tempe, AZ. Its the best local bookstore I've been to and they feature products made by other local businesses too. They have authors there for book signings and its just a really great local place. They have been closed for about a month and are still paying their employees regardless which I love; I'm sure its not easy.
Henry Yun
April 10, 2020
I would like to nominate Dune Coffee Roasters ~ they’re super awesome and the owners Todd and Julia are all about small business empowerment, and they simply kill it in the Santa Barbara Community.
dunecoffee.com
(805) 962 7733
Michelle Bright
April 10, 2020
Consider a rescue.
Fetch WI Rescue, based in Madison, WI, is 100% volunteer run. Due to the pandemic, we had to postpone our annual fundraiser - The Fetch 5K. Providing us, our partners, our supporters, our fosters, with your prize of free merchandise, will not only promote our mission, it will help secure needed funds in a time when events are just not possible to hold. Thank you for considering this ask. www.FetchWI.org
Claire
April 11, 2020
I would like to nominate Farm 12 in Puyallup, WA. They are a small restaurant that is part of a support program for the non-profit Step by Step (which works to support vulnerable pregnant women, so they will "deliver healthy babies, embrace positive parenting, and establish safe homes and secure futures"). Farm 12 has breathed life into this part of town, and is inspiring others to think creatively and passionately as well. They're fairly new, so they've been working hard at staying afloat during this stay at home order in WA state.
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