My name is Tanika Evans, and I am the first minority woman to independently own this particular franchise in the United States. I never imagined I’d be in a position where I have to ask strangers for help, but today my livelihood, my business, and my dreams are on the line—and I’m humbly asking for your support.

I am currently facing eviction and owe $75,000 in back rent and late fees. If I cannot raise this money by the end of January, I will lose my business entirely. I am also the sole income provider for my household.

My Story

My dream turned into a fight for survival the moment I purchased this sub shop franchise. I did it with pride, faith, and courage, believing I was stepping into an opportunity that would allow me to build generational wealth, create jobs, and represent women in an industry where we are rarely seen at the ownership level. What I didn’t know—what I wasn’t fully informed of—was that much of the restaurant’s essential equipment was failing and in need of immediate repair. Shortly after taking ownership, critical equipment began breaking down: all AC units, all refrigeration units, kitchen systems, and other essentials required to operate safely and efficiently. To keep the store open, protect my employees’ jobs, and continue serving customers, I had no choice but to make the repairs out of my own pocket. These fixes cost tens of thousands of dollars, draining my savings and pushing my business further and further into the red. Despite working tirelessly and reinvesting everything I had, the financial strain became overwhelming.

Why This Matters

This business is more than a sandwich shop. It represents:

∙ Ability to support my family

∙ Employees who count on their jobs to support their families

∙ Rare representation of female franchise ownership in America

∙ Jobs and services for my local community

There are very few women who make it to franchise ownership at this level, and even fewer who survive the obstacles that come with it. I didn’t fail because I was careless or irresponsible—I’m in this situation because I kept the business alive when hidden issues threatened to shut it down completely. I showed up. I fixed what needed fixing. I kept going even when it hurt.

Now I Need Help

Every dollar donated goes directly toward:

∙ Paying back rent and preventing eviction

∙ Keeping the doors open

∙ Giving this business a fair chance to recover and move forward

∙ Protecting my family’s only source of income

My court date is at the end of January, so I am racing against the clock. Any amount—large or small—will make a difference. If you are unable to donate, please share this campaign. Your support in spreading the word could be what saves my business and my home.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking the time to listen to my story, support my journey, and stand with me during this critical moment.