Business owners in Newtown have noticed a decline in sales since the tragic school shooting on December 14.
“People weren’t coming in that live around the area for haircuts and shopping because either they couldn’t get here, or because they couldn’t be in the town…they were hurt,” said Marci Benitez, owner of Kids Kuts.
So small business owners have decided to host the “I (heart) Sandy Hook Cash Mob” from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today. Shoppers are being asked to spend $20 at any one of the local shops.
Those who wish to help but are unable to make it to one of the local shops may call and donate over the phone.
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The goal of the cash mob isn’t just to attract more customers , it’s to keep them coming. Owners like Benitez offered customers coupons for their next visit.
Many Newtown businesses have been struggling since the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting last month.
Many visitors to the town, including news crews and those paying their respects at memorials, flooded the streets causing traffic jams that made it near impossible for anyone to shop at local stores.
Local store owners also cite losing holiday shoppers as one of the main reasons for their recent struggles.
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Regardless of how long it takes for businesses to normalize, Benitez believes Sandy Hook will bounce back.
“We are strong. We are sticking together and helping each other out.”
For more information, including a list of participating shops and restaurants, visit http://www.experiencesandyhook.com/Events.html or the Facebook page “I Love Sandy Hook Cash Mob.”
