SALINE CO. (WSIL) -- Communities across the region continue to come together to support local businesses struggling amid the pandemic.
"The businesses, they're the heartbeat of our community. They're always there when we ask for help with our children's ball teams and school events. Now it's time for us to rally together and help the small businesses," says Tricia Johnson, Vice President of Marketing for Legions Bank.
Saline County is coming together with an event called "We are CommUNITY Strong" to provide financial support for local businesses.
"Basically what it is, is it's a telethon. It's going to be broadcast via Facebook Live and so individuals can tune in, watch the event, see wonderful talent from all throughout Saline County. We've really got a wide array of performers that are going to be there," explains Alex Watkins, Economic & Community Coordinator in Harrisburg.
Watkins says their goal is to raise $50,000. "Really what the purpose of the event is to raise funds for our small business community creating a grant fund, if you will, for businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19. To be able to apply and hopefully receive some assistance and help them through this difficult time."
You can donate through Paypal and purchase a t-shirt or mask on the Facebook event page. Johnson says folks are already stepping up to help.
"The outpouring of community members to support and already donate, like I said, several community banks in our county came to the table and helped. Senator Fowler donated as well, a substantial amount of money, to help."
"We really all stand together and again that solidarity of small businesses and the community wanting to support those small businesses have just been absolutely amazing to me," says Watkins.
The event will be live-streamed on the "We Are Community Strong" 6 - 9 p.m. Thursday.
