By Al Arreola, Jr., President/CEO – South San Antonio Chamber

During the pandemic, our Chamber has served as a resource for members and non-member businesses on the Southside. We have worked diligently to effectively communicate the ever-changing regulations and programs implemented to recover our economy.

“We’re Open” sign placed in front of Nicha’s Comida Mexicana.

Prior to COVID-19, our Chamber has been vocal about the need for healthcare awareness, and through our Southside United campaign, we aimed to remind people to “Stay Safe” and “Show Love” for one another. Above all, we have been fighting hard to make sure our businesses can fully operate safely and responsibly, and that it is safe to “Shop South.”

Through a program of work developed in our Chamber Foundation, the Southside First initiative has served as a technical resource to help with recovery grants from the City and County to our area businesses. Our Foundation, through City South Leadership Academy, also awarded $10,000 in scholarships to Southside area High School Grads.

We continue to share information regarding Local, State, and Federal programs like the SBA’s Payroll Protection Program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan, Local Personal Protection Equipment Drives, Job Employment Drives, and further developing community programs.

During stay-at-home orders, we found interactive online ways to spotlight our local businesses while offering a platform for them to still reach customers. In this time of physical and social distancing, we have worked hard to offer in-person events that continue to respect everyone’s safety.

We are still working hard to help our businesses stay successful and advocate for responsible recovery plans and programs in our community. Our resolve to help businesses “Show Love” within our community only bolsters our effort to help us “Stay Safe,” so that everyone can continue to responsibly “Shop South” and enjoy everything we’ve come to know and love about our beloved Southside.

To learn more about the South San Antonio Chamber, click here.