LYNN — Since the Lynnway Indoor Mall & Flea Market – formerly known as Mass Merchandise Mart – closed in July, there has been a concerted effort to provide assistance for businesses that were displaced.
As part of that initiative, 21 businesses have received grants totaling $114,000 from the federal government and state Attorney General Maura Healey’s office.
While eight businesses were funded through the AG’s Small Business Relief Partnership Grant Program, 13 received federal grants through EDIC/Lynn, the Office of Community Development and the office of Mayor Thomas McGee, which applied for and received funding through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. All 21 businesses are minority- or woman-owned.
The CARES Act is a $2 trillion economic relief package designed to mitigate the harmful impact of COVID-19 by providing direct economic assistance to workers, families, and small businesses.
“We are pleased to help these small businesses as they seek to re-establish themselves,” said McGee. “Between the pandemic shutdown and the ultimate closure of the Lynnway Indoor Mall & Flea Market, these businesses are hurting and need all the support we can give them to keep their business in Lynn.”
EDIC/Lynn Executive Director James Cowdell said his office has been helping businesses identify new locations in the city, as well as providing financial assistance.
“We are trying to connect the business owners with any resources that might be available to them,” he said. “We want to do anything we can to help them reopen.”
HUD grants, totalling $94,000 went to D’Anna Furniture, Fashion World, Marcello, Inc, Margarita Kids & Fashion, LaFrontera Western Wear, Moda Fashion, Lady’s Secret Boutiques, La Estrella, Joselin Boutique, DT Company, M&T Computers, Fermin Repairs, Genesis Souvenirs.
The AG grants, totaling $20,000 went to Guibuys, Mujeres, Miguel’s Men’s Shop, RJ Accessories, Esmeralda Fashion, M&T Computers, D Garcia Electronics, Home Solutions Furniture.
