The Rebound Indiana is a new initiative from WRTV to help you navigate the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are your source to find all of the information you need on the help that’s available and how to access those resources. We are focused on helping you find employment, make ends meet, manage the pressure of these unprecedented times, and ensure these programs work as promised. Visit WRTV.com/rebound for more information.
NOBLESVILLE — Each day that the COVID-19 pandemic continues, small business owners tell WRTV they fear the reality of having to permanently close their doors.
“People just aren't comfortable coming inside to dine yet,” Jordan Fox said.
Fox and her husband own Books and Brews in Noblesville.
“We definitely have seen a decline in customers this month especially," Fox said. "We're just really hoping to get some warm heated patio weather again."
Noblesville business owner Jeff Eaton says he’s lost a lot of family dining and large groups since the pandemic started at both of his restaurants, Barley Island Brewing Co. and Deer Creek Pub & Bistro.
“Once people keep getting stimulus money and get vaccinated and get going again, we won’t have thoughts of having to close again,” Eaton said.
The City of Noblesville is once again supporting small business owners like Eaton and Fox as the pandemic continues. The city awarded 45 businesses up to $10,000 in grant money from the Small Business Resilience Grant fund.
“COVID-19 continues to impact our local business and how they operate safely, which is why we offered a second round of grants,” Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen said. “We want to make sure our local businesses have the tools they need to continue to keep our residents employed, to serve residents in the safest way possible, and to stay open for business.”
Fox says she plans to use the money to pay the rent next month.
“We fell in love with this concept six years ago when the original location opened up," Fox said. "My husband and I always wanted to own our own business. If we lost this opportunity to own this franchise, I don't know what I would do next because it really does have my heart.”
Now, Jensen is encouraging Noblesville restaurants to continue to support local. The city has created a business service database website to make it easy.
“Together we can fight this pandemic and come out the other side stronger than ever,” Jensen said.
