Vol. 55: New Grants + A New Chapter for Mama Africa’s Marketplace

Today’s Feature: Mama Africa’s Marketplace

Despite an unprecedented groundswell of community support, recent media coverage in major news outlets, and a lightning grassroots fundraising campaign raising upwards of $30K in less than a month, Mama Africa’s Marketplace is slated to close its doors by tomorrow, January 23rd. Today, Thursday January 22nd, will be the last day that patrons can shop, give well wishes, and honor the institution that has supported them for 5 years in this location.

A host of items including African clothing for children and adults, accessories, home decor, soaps and butters, and much more are still available in-store for purchase today. Patrons can stop by 2100 E. 71st Street in South Shore today until 8PM.

Mama Africa’s story shines a light on many concerns for residents in South Shore and beyond - rising property taxes, gentrification, and potential displacement of businesses and families.

The future for Mama Africa’s Marketplace is still to be determined. Follow them at @mama_africas_markeplace on Instagram to hear directly from them what’s to come. You can still support their fundraiser as they search for opportunities to secure a new space, or contact Ifarinu at mamaafricasmarkeplace@gmail.com with information on available resources or spaces.

Credit Corli Jay for the TRIIBE