Mayor Jorge Elorza encourages everyone to support our city’s small businesses on Saturday, November 28th and every day! Providence is participating in Small Business Saturday, a nationwide holiday tradition that has grown significantly since it started in 2010. According to Buy Local RI, if we shift just 10% of our buying from chains to independent locally owned businesses each year, we can inject $373 million into Rhode Island’s economy.

At a press conference, the mayor said, “We’re all ambassadors. When local businesses thrive, the whole community does too.” He asked consumers to use #thinkpvd to inspire others to Think. Shop. Buy. PVD. Beyond shopping, he suggested buying local produce and dining at locally owned restaurants that support Rhode Island and Massachusetts farms.

Christine Francis, owner of Carmen & Ginger (pictured above), announced a special hat, glove and sock drive in the Arcade on Small Business Saturday. In return for bringing new items for the homeless into her shop on Saturday, people will receive vouchers for discounts and deals at participating businesses. Rogue Island will offer 10% off,  Lore Collection will offer 10% off certain purchases, Goddess Closet will offer 20% off everything in the store, and more! Volunteers from Help the Homeless, RI will distribute the items. Find more details by liking the Arcade Providence on Facebook.