Helping the Little Market & Mr. Garcia aka: Papi

I'm reaching out into our community to ask for help for my dad, and the Little Market.

If you've ever stopped into the Little Market, you've most likely meet Mr. Jesus Garcia - Affectionately called Papi by his children, grandchildren, and so many within our Crown Point Community.

If you've ever stopped in, it's likely he's given your child a piece of candy, or sweet bread (Pan Dulce.) He'll make you a fresh guacamole on the spot if he's out, even making it without onions, or without tomatoes if you request. He's opened early for you to pick up an order on your way into the office, and he's stayed late when you're stuck in traffic. He's catered events, and didn't charge you for delivery. Occasionally having to close the store to make your delivery.

If you've ever stopped in the Little Market you've been meet with a gentle hand, and a welcoming smile. You know what a kind and generous man Mr. Garcia is. He'd give a stranger the shirt off his back, and feed you if he thought you were hungry.

The last 20 months have been hard on ALL small businesses, the Little Market is no exception to that. Mr. Garcia has showed up, day after day. When neighbors couldn't find eggs and sugar, he went out of his way to get them some. When we were faced with the great Toilet Paper shortage, he keep us stocked, and never over priced his items. All the while making tamales, and salsa and bringing us fresh foods. He delivered meals to our local hospital staff, first responders, and schools. He has shown up. Everyday. He has received NO government assistance, did not qualify for the PPE loans, and yet kept showing up. Kept his doors open, kept paying his employees, all with hopes that "someday" soon things would get better. Once it felt like we were on the way back to "normal", North Street directly in front of his building, closed for construction. FOR MONTHS. Business remained slow, but he kept showing up, hoping that once it reopened business would pick back up, again. And it slowly did, until 109th closed... He has never complained. Even as business dropped, and he started falling behind he kept doing what he's always done. Making good food, providing for his family, neighbors and community. Always giving more then he's received, and never asking for or expecting anything in return.

Yesterday I learned that The Little Market is at risk of closing. Through tears, and with his head hung low my dad admitted that he can no longer float the store, and is 4 months behind on rent. The sales he makes today, are what purchase the supplies for tomorrow. While his landlord has been incredibly patient my dad has come to the realization that he can not make nearly enough salsa and tamales to get caught up. And even if he could, people have to start shopping there again.

Today I'm asking our community for help. If Mr. Garcia has ever given you a side of rice, or gave you a salsa as you walk out the door... if he's ever let you come back tomorrow or next week to pay because your card was declined, or you forgot your wallet, this is your opportunity to Thank him and help the man who has given SO MUCH to our community, simply by being himself.

Funds raised here will be used to get caught up on rent and back bills, and hopefully allow him to keep his doors open. We realize the timing is difficult for many, especially before the Holiday's. If you can't donate, please consider shopping over the next few days, or simply sharing this post. Your support is truly appreciated.