“To drive economic development in Wilkinsburg with an emphasis on strengthening the Central Business District.” That’s the mission on which the WCDC was founded more than a decade ago. These are tough times for our small businesses. Doors have been forced to close, employees are out of work. Our hearts hurt for our friends and neighbors who are struggling.
Please know that, while we’re working safely from our homes, we are still working hard to pursue this mission. Yesterday, today, and every day after as Wilkinsburg is restored to a most prosperous, healthy, and inclusive community regarded for its strong business district and neighborhoods, historic charm, convenient location, desirable quality of life, and community pride.
We’re reaching out to local businesses by phone, we’re working as a team to improve our own internal processes so that we can better serve the community, and we’re completing the lengthy paperwork needed to secure the grant funding that allows us to offer things like the Facade Renovation Program, the Rental Assistance Program, or the Youth Initiative Mini-Grant Program.
To our local, small businesses owners: We want to hear from you! Please don’t hesitate to contact me at tracey@wilkinsburgcdc.org or 412-727-7855. We are committed to supporting you in any way that we can, whether it’s sharing information on how the community can support you, or helping to connect you with state resources. Please reference this list of resources, which includes loan opportunities, assistance programs, and more.
To our friends and neighbors: Please don’t forget about your business district. It’s the heart of the Wilkinsburg community, and it can only survive if we all come together and show our support. Order take out, purchase gift cards, and order online now, and when their doors reopen – dine out, get your hair cut, and shop! Shop small, shop local, and shop frequently. They need us now more than ever, and together we can get through these unprecedented times.
Until we see each other again soon,
Tracey Evans
Executive Director
Wilkinsburg Community Development Center