This year has been filled with unprecedented challenges for our community, disrupting daily routines and livelihoods. Tenleytown’s small, local businesses have borne the brunt of the economic crisis and struggled to weather more than nine months of constrained operations and public health concerns. Now, with a vaccine being deployed and the promise of spring ahead, there is some light appearing at the end of a very dark tunnel.

However, to reach that brighter day – when friends can once again gather for a chat at a cozy coffee shop, pop into local shops to find a perfect gift for a loved one, or enjoy a celebratory dinner out with family – our businesses need support now more than ever.  The winter will be difficult, and Tenleytown Main Street needs your help to ensure that all your favorite local businesses are able to welcome you back come spring.

We are grateful for Tenleytown’s tightknit community that unites to support those in need. Thanks in large part to the generosity of community members, Tenleytown Main Street in 2020 has been able to:

• Award nearly $82,500 in grants and recovery supplies to Tenleytown small businesses and help them secure $377,000 in additional grant assistance
• Provide more than 1,000 hours of technical assistance to help businesses adapt their operations, access government relief programs, and apply for financial assistance
• Provide digital marketing support that has touched more than 50 businesses
• Publish weekly Business Briefs with information on assistance programs, policy changes impacting businesses, and operational guidance, which have been read more than 20,000 times
• Lead the distribution of PPE care packages to more than 100 businesses as part of a citywide distribution program

But as we enter the new year, we know there is still much more work to be done, and we humbly ask for your continued support.

For more than 230 years, this community has proven resilient due to those who work and live here. The District’s second oldest community, Tenleytown was founded circa 1790, taking its name from a local tavern owner. Since then, it has grown from a rural village, with a few small stores, to a thriving, vibrant urban and residential center.

In recognition of this enduring past and commitment to our future, we ask that you make a monthly, recurring gift of $17.90 to Tenleytown Main Street. Your gift will enable us to continue to provide vital assistance to the small, local businesses at the heart of our community. Together we will emerge stronger and build the thriving neighborhood we all envision.

Become a Community Champion with a monthly recurring contribution of $17.90 to Tenleytown Main Street. While the minimum suggested monthly contribution is $17.90, less than a meal for two, no gift is too small or too large; we appreciate any donation that is meaningful for you.

Thank you for your support and solidarity with Tenleytown’s small and local businesses.

TMS is a registered 501c3 organization, making your contribution fully tax deductible. Employer matches also welcome.