Black Mom, Owner of Grocery Store Chain Faces Setback After City of Chicago Denies Her Small Business Funding

Nationwide — Meet Ena Jones, an African American mom who is also the CEO and Owner of Roots & Vine Produce and Cafe, an innovative and community-oriented grocery chain that contracts with a great network of farmers and truckers throughout the country to be suppliers and handle logistics. She has recently launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $1,250,000 in order to complete the renovations of two of their locations and establish a state-of-the-art product manufacturing facility in Chicago. The decision to seek public support comes after the company’s disappointing seven-month wait for a small business grant opportunity through the city of Chicago, causing delays in their grand opening plans.

Founded by a passionate Black women entrepreneur and a network of farmers, Roots & Vine Produce And Cafe is dedicated to providing fresh, locally sourced produce and promoting sustainable food practices. Their commitment to empowering and uplifting the local community is evident through their strong emphasis on supporting minority-owned farms and suppliers, as well as their active involvement in community outreach programs with Green Table Talks non-profit organization.

Having experienced tremendous success and support in their anticipated opening, Roots & Vine Produce And Cafe decided to expand its operations to further meet the growing demands of its enthusiastic customer base. However, an unexpected setback occurred when the city of Chicago denied the company’s small business grant opportunity, leaving them in a financial bind.

Despite this disappointment, Roots & Vine remains determined to bring its vision to life and solidify its presence in Chicago. The funds raised through the GoFundMe campaign will be utilized to finalize the renovations of two new locations, offering increased accessibility to fresh, sustainable produce and wholesome meal options for underserved communities. Additionally, the manufacturing facility will enable the company to produce its own line of high-quality & culturally relevant food products, further enhancing the local economy and promoting job creation.

Roots & Vine Produce And Cafe firmly believes in the power of community and the ability to rally together during challenging times. Their GoFundMe campaign aims to showcase the strength and resilience of the Chicago community, inviting individuals and organizations to contribute towards their fundraising goal. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a significant impact in bringing their vision to fruition.

In discussing the campaign, the co-founder of Roots & Vine Produce and Cafe, Ms. Ena Jones, expressed her gratitude to the community, saying, “We are incredibly grateful for the support and love we have received thus far. Despite the setback, we remain committed to providing fresh, sustainably sourced produce and empowering our community. With your help, we will be able to complete the renovations and build a thriving manufacturing facility that will benefit everyone.”

To support Roots & Vine Produce And Cafe and contribute to their GoFundMe campaign, please visit https://gofund.me/d47e390a. Every donation is greatly appreciated, and all contributors will be recognized on the company’s website and social media platforms as a token of their gratitude.

For more information, please visit RootsAndVineInc.com or follow the brand on Facebook.

About
Roots & Vine Produce and Cafe is a Black woman and farmer-owned grocery chain dedicated to providing fresh, locally sourced produce and promoting sustainable food practices. Founded with a commitment to empowering Black Farmers & food desert communities, Roots & Vine is actively involved in supporting minority-owned farms and suppliers and engaging in community outreach programs.

For press inquiries, contact 773-979-0199 or ejones@rootsandvineinc.com