As small businesses begin to reopen, personal protection equipment (PPE) and sanitary supplies are hard to find. That’s why a group of volunteers and business leaders stepped up to help. Small Business Care Knox was created to provide small business owners with the items they need to, both get their doors open, and keep their employees and customers safe as they work to reopen.

 

Thanks to Old Forge Distillery, Marc Nelson Denim and Dream Institute, Small Business Care Knox secured enough donated sanitizer and face masks to help provide dozens of businesses with the required equipment needed to comply with the protocols set forth by Knox County Health Department. Those in need of supplies can visit Small Business Care Knox on Facebook and message your request or pick up at one of the participating locations listed below.

 

“We want small business owners, especially those who provide close-contact services, to feel confident they are keeping themselves, their employees and their clients safe,” said Knoxville City Councilmembers, Janet Testerman and Tommy Smith. “Many business owners either can’t find the necessary supplies or because of financial hardship after being closed for weeks, may not have the resources to afford the necessary equipment.”

 

We are also accepting donations of these items along with cleaning supplies and no-contact thermometers, which we’re also working to secure. Aubrey’s restaurant locations at Papermill, Emory Road and Middlebrook Pike at Cedar Bluff are local donation sites for those interested in helping support our local business community and contributing needed supplies.

 

“We saw a need among local small businesses who’ve been struggling during these challenging times and were able to quickly move to action,” said Tennessee State Representative, Rick Staples. “We want to ensure those contributing to our community and economy are able to get back on their feet as quickly as possible.”

 

Currently, there are five pick-up locations for supplies:  Marc Nelson Denim, 700 E Depot Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917; Dream Institute, 2630 N Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37917; South Coast Pizza, 1103 Sevier Ave, Knoxville, TN 37920; The Change Center, 203 Harriet Tubman St, Knoxville, TN 37915; and All Occasions Party Rentals, 5825 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37921.

 

Small Business Care Knox will provide the safety kits while supplies last.