Help Pete and Shirley keep their business

I am asking my friends and family to please extend help to Pete and Shirley Domingo, a Filipino couple in New York City, whom I consider the embodiment of Bayanihan. Drastically affected by the pandemic, they need support to get back their business.

I believe this is how we should protect our own. In the little ways we can, we extend help. For as low as 5 dollars, your help is appreciated. I am certain that the help we give them now will not only resolve economic challenges, it will allow them to continue to serve poor communities and give back to where help is needed.  

I met Pete and Shirley more than 10 years ago as volunteers in the Filipino American community who both dedicated their time and resources in helping poor communities in the Philippines. They organized and developed programs to support those in need.  True nation builders themselves, they have been at the forefront in efforts to support housing and education programs through Gawad Kalinga and whenever disaster strikes in the Philippines, they take the lead in any call to action to send support, promoting the spirit of Bayanihan. Their life mantra – caring and sharing.

Both in their 70s, they had planned for their retirement before the pandemic where they intended to sell their business and retire from the proceeds. For more than 25 years, they serviced the special events industry in New York by offering rentals of decorative pieces ranging from specialty custom linens to gold, silver, and crystal candelabras and candlesticks to classic Greek, Roman and Contemporary columns, pedestals and urns, as well as gold, silver, and crystal floral centerpiece bowls.  They have a selection of chuppa, arches, and gazebos that were used in special events, big and small. These candelabras, wrought irons, accent linens, among others, create the ambience that make any event special. They even had their inventory used in movies!

When coronavirus hit, the business came to an abrupt end. This has impacted the couple now losing their main source of income. And what's making it worse, their inventory of more than 3,000 rental pieces might be thrown away as they had not paid for warehouse rental.

Right now, they need to take out the items from a storage facility whose owner had warned them that they’re going to throw away the inventory.

For this campaign, I am hoping they will be provided with funds to get a cheaper storage facility and restart the business with some initial cash flow to begin operations.

As we continue to battle the pandemic, I know we are all affected in some way or another but kindly share this link and help find anyone who may be able to share at least $5. Please help me help Pete and Shirley enjoy the peace of mind and retirement that they both deserve.