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Supporting small businesses this holiday season
Lloyd Sowers reports.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - The holiday season is upon us in the Bay Area, and some of our leaders are urging residents to shop locally when buying gifts for loved ones.
U.S. Representative Kathy Castor is among those in Hillsborough County leading this call.
"This is really a time to support our small businesses," Castor said.
READ MORE: Tampa church giving away thousands of free turkeys to families in need ahead of Thanksgiving
Castor said it is more important than ever for Bay Area residents to shop locally as small businesses continue to deal with the economic fallout of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Rep. Kathy Castor shopping in Downtown St. Pete as part of a yearly visit to the city to promote shopping locally.
Small business owners in the Tampa region, like Anthony Shun, have simple messages to send to their communities this holiday season.
"We love engaging the community," Shun said. "The money you guys can come spend with us really, really does make an impact."
On Nov. 26, Castor visited several small businesses in Downtown St. Petersburg, where she promotes small businesses yearly.
READ MORE: Holmes Beach restaurant back open after flooding damage from Hurricane Helene
While visiting Downtown St. Pete Castor, Castor called small businesses the backbone of the local economy. She said they need customers more than ever because many businesses suffered damage.
"In order to recover from the storms, we have to support our neighbors and small business owners," Castor said. "That's how we're going to make our way back."
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