Rep. Kelly Cites Bergstein's Deli as Example of How Restaurant Revitalization Fund Helped Local Restaurants Survive
Press Conference
MATTESON, IL -- Today, in recognition of National Small Business Week, Congresswoman Robin L. Kelly (IL-02) hosted a press conference at Bergstein's NY Deli to show how the Restaurant Revitalization Fund helped the Chicago Heights deli and other restaurants and bars in the 2nd District hard-hit by the pandemic.
Also in attendance were Bergstein's co-owner Alice Davis, Chicago Heights Mayor David Gonzalez, Chicago Heights 5th Ward Alderman George Brassea, along with members of the city's fire and police departments, and representatives from Bloom Township.
"In Congress, I'm glad we have created funding sources to help look out for Bergstein's and other restaurants in the community," Congresswoman Kelly said. "The Restaurant Revitalization Fund--created under the Democrats' American Rescue Plan--helped keep Bergstein's doors open and their staff paid. It provided $28 billion in assistance to restaurants and bars that were hard-hit by the pandemic. As of the end of June, 4,542 restaurants, bars, and other food service establishments in Illinois have received $1.4 billion dollars in funding through the Restaurant Revitalization Fund."
"Funding was a huge support that kept us in business," said co-owner Alice Davis, whose family-owned deli received $97,359 in funding. "I don't think we would be open if not for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. It was a difficult time. We did not know how we were going to keep open. Employees are like family to us, and we had to think of their health concerns. Everyone got paid and they stuck with us."
"When small businesses struggle, we as a city struggle," said Chicago Heights Mayor David Gonzalez. "Nearly all the revenue we receive comes from small businesses. It will take more time for small businesses to recover, but they will. We're grateful for Congresswoman Kelly's support of the American Rescue Plan and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund."
The American Rescue Plan was one of the most significant pieces of economic legislation since the New Deal. In addition to providing help to restaurants and bars, the ARP provided funding assistance for shuttered venues, like theaters and museums, and sent funding directly into communities.
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