Buy Local Give Local Fund

Supporting Downtown Businesses AND Community Members in Need

Everyone could use a smile during these uncertain times. By donating to the Buy Local, Give Local Fund, purchases were made at small businesses to provide support to those in need and front line workers. It’s was truly an impactful win-win!

As the world responds to the COVID-19 pandemic, small businesses have been affected in a variety of ways, and Downtown Traverse City is no different. As the stewards for Downtown, the Traverse City Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has launched this program to create an economic influx in Downtown while supporting those who need it most in our community.

Thank You!

It is with this sentiment, that the essence of a smile was born. A crisis like COVID-19 has had an emotional impact on our community members, especially children, front line workers, and patients and families directly impacted by the diagnosis of COVID-19. The Buy Local Give Local Fund eased those burdens with a smile, providing hope, and bring joy.

Thank you for helping us keep the spirit alive in those that need it most, while supporting our Downtown businesses. All donations were utilized to purchase product from Downtown businesses.

You Made An Impact!

How It Worked

The Traverse City DDA partnered with the Munson Foundation, Traverse City Area Public Schools, The Goodwill Inn, and Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center to provide products, foods, and gift cards to the families and community members they support.

Donations to the Buy Local, Give Local Fund helped purchase necessary items from local Downtown small businesses that were donated to our partners.

For example, donations were used to purchase art supplies, books, puzzles, and additional items that will be provided to children housed at The Goodwill Inn, TCAPS students, and children from the Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy center. Front line workers at Munson will receive employee incentives such as gift cards, movie passes, and sweet treats for the dedication and commitment to helping us in these challenging times. We will also be working closely with case workers at Munson to provide care packages to patients and families affected by COVID-19.