Several businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic have received funds raised by the local community. In May 2020, medical students Connor Corrente and Katie Toth at the Penn State College of Medicine, Adam Clayman at The Hershey Company, and the Downtown Hershey Association partnered to create the Run for Hershey Virtual 5K in support of small businesses in Hershey that were impacted by the pandemic.

After an application process last fall, the virtual 5K funds were donated as grants to 13 businesses that submitted applications. The businesses are 110 West; Au Bon Lieu; Beef Jerky Outlet in Hershey; Bella Sera Boutique; The Chocolate Avenue Grille; Escape Room Hershey; Knock Knock Boutique; The Shoppe on Chocolate and Calicutts, which submitted a joint application; Simmons Motel; Simply J Boutique; Three Little Birds Boutique; and Tropical Smoothie Cafe in Hershey.

The grants were intended to make up for loss of business revenue during the pandemic. From the onset of the pandemic in the spring through the stalling of the tourist season in the summer, many of the businesses situated in downtown Hershey were closed for several months. The recipients of the grants put the funds toward paying rent, payroll, and other expenses.

To learn more, readers may contact Derek Dunham at derek@downtownhershey.com.