Everyone can benefit from shopping local as it enriches the community in so many ways. It strengthens the economy by creating local jobs and keeping the wealth in the area.
Shopping local is also the more environmentally friendly choice because there is less packaging and transportation fuel used. It also encourages entrepreneurship and embraces what makes your city unique.
In addition to the advantages of shopping local, even more can be accomplished if the business is Black owned. This takes your purchase one step further because not only can it make a positive economic change but a social change as well.
According to Green America, a non profit environmental organization, the average wealth for white families is 12 times the amount compared to Black families. The racial wealth gap can be traced back to the Jim Crow era when job discrimination prevented African Americans from exceeding financially.
Financial discrimination continues to be an issue today. For example, small bank loans are twice as likely to be given to white applicants over Black applicants. By contributing to Black businesses, the wealth gap can decrease and their generational wealth can increase.
Purchases at local Black businesses allow more and more Black entrepreneurs to grow in the economic world and share their culture in their communities.
In Wichita, Black owned companies have made major contributions to the community through their local stores and restaurants.
Korine’s Soul Food and Sorrel’s Jamaican are great options to experience authentic ethnic food in the area. For a quick bite, also check out Sport Burger and Yummy’s Carryout. And if you’re craving dessert after all that, stop by Wichita Cheesecake Company for some goodies.
Eating out is not the only way to support Black businesses in Wichita. Even by being mindful about who you purchase your clothes from can be beneficial. Dead Center Vintage is a thrift shop right on Douglas that offers a variety of unique clothing for everyone. It’s On Clothing is also a good option for those interested in customizable streetwear.
For seniors searching for a photographer to take their senior pictures, look into hiring a local Black photographer like Jianna Cousin (J Cousin Photography) or Jaden Powell (Iconic Photography). Both are young entrepreneurs that would love more support.
By expanding your horizons and investing in a new local company, not only are you benefiting the owners but yourself as well, by walking away with a quality product or service and a genuine connection to someone new in your community.
Addresses of Black Owned Businesses
Korine’s Soul Food- 1412 E 9th St N, Wichita, KS 67214
Sorrel’s Jamaican Food- 222 S Commerce, Wichita, KS 67202
Sport Burger- 134 N Hillside St, Wichita, KS 67214
Yummy’s Carryout- 1935 S Hydraulic Ave, Wichita, KS 67211
Wichita Cheesecake Company- 701 E Douglas Ave suite D, Wichita, KS 67202