T-Shirts to Help Covid-Clobbered Southern Tier Businesses & Charities
Broome County’s Economic Development group, “The Agency”, is giving residents a way to support local non-profits and small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic while picking up some unique “swag”.
“The Shop Local T-Shirt and Hoodie Project” is taking pre-orders for shirts sporting logos of everything from martial arts studios and gyms to diners and dog shelters. A portion of the cost goes directly to help the business or non-profit as they struggle with the economic impact of the pandemic.
The Agency says, almost a year ago in March, what had been thought to be a temporary shutdown turned into months with reopening under cumbersome restrictions.
The Community Tee Project at Worldwide Sport Supply was launched last summer as a way to help businesses and charitable groups. During the second half of 2020, the effort raised over $49,000 in donations going to over 250 businesses in the community to help them get through tough times.
Organizers say 2021 has not shown the improvement for which everyone had hoped, so the fundraising store is being launched again to support businesses and organizations.
Pre-sale orders are being taken for shirts to be printed after the ordering period ends and then shipped out. People placing pre-orders will be notified by email when the shirts are ready.
Officials say t-shirts cost $19. Ten of that goes directly to the business or non-profit with the remaining $9 to cover materials, labor and handling.
The shop can be found at shoplocal607.itemorder.com along with information for businesses or organizations that would like to participate.
The logo design and shirt colors are being kept basic to keep costs down and provide better financial return to support those businesses and non-profits involved.