Park Slopers are rallying to save Heather Johnston's Good Wine shop, reports Patch. The beloved storefront has been struggling to stay afloat since the pandemic.
Since opening on Fifth Avenue and Third Street in 2015, the shop, which is one of the few Black female-owned wine shops in the country, has hosted a number of beloved community events such as wine tastings. But, Johnston has also faced financial challenges — falling behind on sales tax deposits and, due to the pandemic, months of rent.
These financial woes coupled with supply chain issues, have pushed the shop to its brink and now Johnston is is looking to save her business with the help of local Park Slope residents.
"We are very suddenly facing hard times due to a series of setbacks," Johnston wrote on a GoFundMe page. "We are in a position to overcome our problems quickly and with great success if we can rally some small support from our wonderful customers and others who believe in American small business, Brooklyn spirit, and diversity in retail environments."
With a goal of $75,000, Johnston would be able to resolve her tax and debt issues. As of Tuesday the fundraiser, has raised about $40,500 from hundreds of locals, many of whom say Good Wine is their favorite place to get wine.
And since launching the GoFundMe, Good Wine has been able to host more wine tastings and classes for the first time since the pandemic.
"We're back to our original game thanks to you," Johnston said in a social media post, encouraging neighbors to keep up the support. "Please spread the word."
Find the 'SaveGoodWine!' GoFundMe here or find out more about Good Wine at the shop's website.
