Meet One of the 35 Business Owners Who Just Received Round 1 COVID-19 Relief Funding

As if launching a new business weren’t challenging enough, Andrew Benavides launched a year before the pandemic.  

“I think some people see my new business and the fact that I have customers and they think, ‘Wow, he must have money,’ but it’s actually the opposite. I don’t pay myself because I can’t. We’re paying our bills, but if I got sick or hurt or something, then what?” 

Even with that uphill battle ahead of him, Andrew acknowledged businesses faring much worse in City Heights.  

“I know a few people who launched their business during COVID-19, and I just wish them well. It’s rough right now.”  

It really is. Businesses all over San Diego County are struggling.

That’s why we’re celebrating the nearly quarter million dollars that went out to 35 pillar businesses like Andrew’s all over the community in round 1 of the City Heights Business Relief Fund. For many entrepreneurs like Andrew, it provides a small safety net and it ensures many of City Heights’ most diverse, unique, and profitable businesses will be able to endure the pandemic. Round 2 was launched last month, stay tuned for additional awards. 

“Working together as a community is the key to all this. We don’t thrive alone. Of course someone could pop into City Heights, start a business, and just show up to make money without considering the community, but the community will always ask, ‘Ok, but who are you? What are you about?’” 

When we first interviewed Andrew back toward the start of his business, he emphasized community then in the same way he does now, specifically with this beautiful statement: “We’re all interconnected. I’m not looking for my business to become a big cash cow (though obviously I need money to survive), but I am very interested in the kind of community I’m helping create. What kind of community will I be a part of? I can’t do it alone.”

Well said, and congratulations on building a fantastic business! We’re with you.