Jeff and Andie from Number 8 Emporium are at risk of loosing their business that they have worked so hard to build. With the recent redevelopment of the market area, they were drastically affected by the works and delays that ensued while the council rebuilt the masonary and electrical works. As with many small business owners, they had a reserve of funds that they set aside in case of an emergency, but even that proved not to be enough to endure the length of time the redevelopment project took. They now have exhausted their reserve.
Forest Gate is in a crisis. There are many vacant businesses with more to come. With the upcoming redevelopment of the Methodist Church, there will be a second set of hoardings that are going up for possibly two years. Also, the hoarding across the street, that starts at the old Barry's Meat Market has no visible end in site. Not to mention the old Alert in Newham buiding, The burnt out Portico Estate Agent and the recently closed Corner Kitchen.
We have to support our local businesses. If we don't they will go. Andie and Jeff have given a lot to our community, it's time we give back. Let's help them by giving them a donation. It's more than helping out a struggling business, It is helping friends and it's saying that we care about Forest Gate and the community that we live in.
Sincerely,
Rob DesRoches (Forest Gate Resident and Community Activist)