Readers Write: The Store Closures Keep Coming – How Can WE Save Them?

Dear Editor,

In recent months, we’ve all noticed a troubling trend in our neighborhood, especially along 13th Avenue. Store after store is closing its doors, unable to withstand the financial pressures of today’s market. It has sadly become the norm that hardly a week goes by without another closure.

Yes, new stores continue to open, but for every new one that rises, another falls. This constant cycle is a reminder that if we do not step in as a community, we risk losing the very businesses that give our neighborhood its heartbeat.

But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be this way. We as a community have more power than we realize. Each one of us makes dozens of small shopping decisions every week. If we put in just a little more effort to do those purchases locally, it could make a real difference. We can’t fix the entire economy, but when we shop here, we’re helping our stores stay afloat, and we’re keeping our own economy alive.

Now that the summer season has come to an end and everyone is back locally, we have a fresh opportunity to make a change. With the Tishrei season upon us and the long winter months ahead, this is the time to act. Our stores need us most during these busy seasons, and the choices we make now can help set them up for survival - and success.

When we shop elsewhere or online, the money leaves our community and never comes back. But when we shop local, we’re reinvesting in our neighbors, our friends, and even our own families. Let’s not wait until another “for rent” sign goes up on the block. Let’s make the effort now.

Even small choices make a big difference. Pick up your groceries here. Buy a gift locally instead of online. It all adds up. Together, we can turn the tide and give our stores the support they need to survive and thrive. Our local stores need us - but the truth is, we need them just as much.

Let’s not wait for more closures. Let’s start now, each of us doing our part.

Sincerely,

Rivkie T.