March 16, 2025 - 09:12
Jessica Betancourt is a fighter. After her Bronx optical shop was vandalized by looters during the protests following George Floyd’s death in 2020, she managed to reopen just three weeks later. Now, she faces another challenge as a devastating fire has struck her community, impacting numerous local businesses.
The recent blaze, which engulfed a block of storefronts, has left many entrepreneurs grappling with the aftermath. Betancourt and her fellow business owners are determined to bounce back, tapping into their resilience and community support. They are working tirelessly to rebuild their establishments and restore normalcy in the neighborhood.
As they navigate the recovery process, local organizations are stepping in to provide assistance, offering resources and guidance to help these businesses get back on their feet. The spirit of solidarity is palpable, with residents rallying to support their local economy. Despite the setbacks, the determination of Bronx entrepreneurs shines through as they aim to reclaim their spaces and thrive once again.
