By Bill Parry
Two of the 15 small businesses that were devastated during a four-alarm blaze in Flushing last week became the first to receive emergency loans Friday. The Asian Americans for Equality presented checks totaling $50,000 to the owners of the Elegant Hair Salon and Silver World Venture for repairs and lost business.
“This tragic fire devastated the small businesses of Flushing, and when it hit, we knew we needed to act fast to help get them back on their feet,” AAFE Executive Director Christopher Kui said. “I am proud to say that the very next week we were able to provide financial relief to these two businesses and continue to work with others affected. Immigrant and minority-owned small businesses are always at risk of being displaced and a tragedy like this can put an incredible amount of pressure on them. We are happy to help them stay in the community by providing these loans and business support.”
Both owners are Flushing residents. The fire was labeled accidental by the FDNY.
