Help Save My Mom's Dream - Windsor, Canada

Hi, my name is Alyssa and my mom and I own Swinging Soaps in Windsor, Ontario. We're family owned and operated, and have been open for five years. Sadly, like many other small businesses, COVID has affected us severely. During lockdowns, we had to close our doors through our busiest months, and the Government hasn't exactly helped us out. It took us seven tries to get the small business loan and when we finally did get it, it was gone in a month due to bills piling up over the year.

We've tried everything we can to stay afloat, we've made arrangements with our landlords and billing companies, but it's been two years and patience can only go so far. My dad has been out of work since his contract ended before COVID began, as he couldn't travel and no one will hire an overqualified man nearing his retirement years. Both myself and my brother have gotten jobs, and while our income has helped soften the blows, it's not nearly enough to keep a family of four and a shop going.

My mom is 52, the shop is the only thing she knows how to do, and we're going to lose everything we have all worked so hard to keep. So much love has gone into those four walls, into the products we put out everyday, into the experiences our customers have. Growing up, my mom always taught me to follow my dreams, and I can't watch her lose hers, not after watching her put everything she has into it. She's a proud woman, and doing this isn't an easy thing for her to do, but it's the only option left.

We would be so grateful for any help you can give. We know a lot of people are struggling during this time, if you can't donate, please share this with someone or check out our store. We'd so appreciate anything you're willing to give.