Hi, my name is Jacquelyn, and I’m the owner of PromiseOysterBar, a small business that’s been a part of the Bayview community in San Francisco and the Lake Merritt area in Oakland since 2019.

On March 21, 2025, while setting up for the day like I normally do, I experienced something no small business owner should ever have to face. I was assaulted by a young woman who repeatedly drove past my setup and eventually displayed a firearm. A passenger then exited the vehicle, began destroying my setup, and took food from my tables and grill.

Due to ongoing legal proceedings, I’m unable to share specific details, but this traumatic event has left me unable to continue operating PromiseOysterBar on a day-to-day basis. I no longer feel safe, and that fear has deeply affected not just me, but my ability to provide for my children.

Although I was the victim in this situation, I was arrested and released on supervised bail with GPS monitoring. Now I’m facing unexpected legal expenses, including attorney fees and monitoring costs—all while trying to support my family as a single mother.

PromiseOysterBar is more than just a business. It’s how I feed my children and pay my bills. It’s my passion. But after what happened, I’m scared to even bring my kids with me to pop-ups, knowing that the individuals involved have continued to make threats online and offline.

All I have right now is a dream and faith that something greater is ahead. I believe God has a bigger plan for me, even in the midst of this storm.

I’m asking for help—not just for myself, but for every small business owner who’s ever been threatened, harmed, or silenced. This could happen to anyone. Anything you can give is deeply appreciated, and your support means the world.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for standing with me please keep me in my children in your prayers.

With love,

Jacquelyn (PromiseOysterBar)