My name is Josue, and I am creating this fundraiser for my cousin, Jessica Jimenez, owner of 38th Street Mart and Silver City Smoke Shop on National Avenue in Milwaukee.

Jessica is a hardworking small business owner who has spent years serving the community. Her businesses are a small, woman-owned operation, and like many local businesses, every sale makes a real difference.

Recently, 38th Street Mart was broken into twice. During the break-ins, the front entrance was damaged, glass was shattered, and merchandise was stolen from both businesses. Items taken included food, drinks, apparel, lottery products, tobacco accessories, wraps, cash, and other inventory.

The break-ins also forced the businesses to close temporarily while the damage was cleaned up and repairs were made. That closure caused even more financial strain.

The estimated losses include:

$500 in apparel

$500 in food and drinks

$450 in lottery products

$800 in other merchandise

$1,000 in damage to the store and equipment

$1,700 in lost revenue from having to close

The total impact is currently estimated at approximately $4,950.

This happened at an especially difficult time. Ongoing construction along National Avenue has already made it harder for customers to access the businesses and has significantly affected revenue.

After reviewing her options, Jessica decided not to file an insurance claim because of the potential long-term financial impact on her small business. As a result, she is covering these losses out of pocket.

Despite the break-ins, closures, stolen inventory, and lost revenue, Jessica has continued paying her employee. She understands that this situation affects more than just her own livelihood, and she has done her best to support the person who depends on the business for income.

We are hoping to raise $6,000 to help cover the losses, replace stolen inventory, repair the damage, recover some of the lost revenue, and help Jessica continue supporting her employee while the businesses recover.

Every donation, no matter the amount, will make a difference. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser with friends, family, and the Milwaukee community would mean just as much.

Small businesses are an important part of our neighborhoods, and community support can make all the difference during a difficult time.

Thank you for taking the time to read Jessica’s story and for supporting a local woman-owned business.

With gratitude,

Josue Peralta