Help Seagrape Recover from Storm Damage

During the insane rains this past week, my dear friend and small business owner, Rue Vashakidze, was hit hard with water damage at Seagrape Apothecary. The loss to the production space is immense. Not only did the entire area flood, but Rue lost raw materials and pallets of packaging and production supplies. The drywall sustained damage and mold remission will be imperative to continue production work in the space.

Watch: Local News Coverage of Seagrape Damage

Rue decided to close the business until the weather improved because there was gushing water flooding into the space, the bathroom ceiling was actively bubbling and draining into the shop, and water was spouting from the interior foundation.

Being closed was a huge loss in so many ways. And now, they are looking forward to the cost of so many costly repairs. This year has already been hard on small business, with sales down in general. On top of a slow year and devastating damage, Rue is dealing with landlords that are not taking responsibility for the flooding or building maintenance. As the damage and costs piles up, Rue is overwhelmed with financial burden, literally "underwater," and stressed by the work it will take to revive Seagrape.

Anyone who knows Rue and the beautiful Seagrape shop they have built, feels the love and connection that pours from the space and envelopes the community. There is no end to the amount of community support and engagement that is the base of Seagrape's mission. And Rue embodies this, everyday. They have an ever present optimistic and loving outlook that is reflected in the beautiful business they have created.

Please join me in supporting Rue and Seagrape in recouping the loss of this winter storm, so they can keep caring for and bringing such joy to our Portland community.