LA’s vibrant Black community is worthy of celebrating year-round as an integral part of the fabric of our city of angels. During Black History Month, though, we’d like to remind you to support Black-owned businesses—from restaurants and cafes, to kid’s activity centers and yoga studios, here are some of our favorite LA Black-owned businesses for parents and kids.

Black-Owned Indoor Playgrounds & Creative Spaces in Los Angeles

Design Hive

Your little engineers and mini-creators will enjoy designing and being innovative in this process-based design and technology studio founded by two former veteran LA teachers. Kids can explore crafting, create their very own marble tiles, design their own LED wands and custom-designed jewelry through their various workshop options. They also host private parties and you can check their site for virtual engagement opportunities. Please note, they recently instituted a policy that all guests must be fully vaccinated, regardless of age. This means they are pausing programs for children ages 4 and under.

5368 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles
Online: designhivela.com

A Toast 2 Artistry

A paint and sip experience for all ages to have fun painting with two-hour painting sessions that allow you to create a masterpiece with the people you love in the comfort of your own home, their studio, or any preferred location. Virtual parties are also available.

256 S. Locust St.
Inglewood
Online: atoast2artistry.com

Bounce

This kid’s gym offers entertainment options for your littles for any occasion, big or small. They host birthday parties, offer private classes, access to a bounce house, and rent their play equipment. Their coaches inspire fun times for all! They are currently offering outdoor classes in two park locations.

9618 W. Pico Blvd.
Pico/Robertson
Online: bouncela.com

Black-Owned Restaurants, Cafes & Dessert Shops in Los Angeles

CENTRAL LOS ANGELES

Happy Ice

Happy Ice via Yelp

Not your ordinary shaved ice/sorbet treat in the least as Happy Ice is a whole experience to embark on. Made from a “secret recipe” from Philadelphia, these icy desserts are bursting with colors and flavors that will make all your senses happy. They have a retail location as well as truck locations. Check their site for details on where to get your Happy Ice. Try their Cherry Bomb and Sour Apple Lush and you will keep coming back for more!  Added bonus, all flavors are dairy free, nut free, gluten free and vegan friendly.

7324 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: happyicela.com

Flavors from Afar

This eatery will give you a real world experience with its revolving menu featuring international cuisine with a twist. Created by chefs who were former refugees and asylum seekers—the dishes they offer reflect the chefs’ vibrant cultures. For every meal purchased, Flavors from Afar donates non-perishable foods to a low-income family.

1046 S. Fairfax
Carthay Square
Online: flavorsfromafar.co

 

Stevie's Creole Cafe

Heidi S. via Yelp

Voted as “the best gumbo this side of New Orleans” by the Los Angeles’s late, great food critic Jonathan Gold, Stevie’s Creole Cafe has delectable Creole cuisine bursting with flavors. Make sure you taste their Smokey Fried Chicken and, of course, don’t leave without trying their famous Seafood Gumbo. To finish off your heavenly meal, indulge in their Peach Beignets made with fresh peach juices and cinnamon sugar. Divine!

5545 Pico Ave.
Mid-City
Online: steviescreolecafe.com

Bludso's Bar & Que

You don’t need to go all the way to Texas to get their signature BBQ thanks to Bludso’s Bar & Que featuring all the signature dishes from this Southern state. Owned by Kevin Bludso, he has created an empire out of his BBQ dishes and includes side dishes worthy of entree-status, like their Texas Cheese Fries made with brisket and pickled jalapeño.

609 N. La Brea Ave.
Fairfax
Online: barandque.com

 

EAST LOS ANGELES & DOWNTOWN

Fixins Soul Kitchen

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Terra P. via Yelp

Offering authentic American soul food in a modern, hip “Black excellence” experience that guarantees your taste buds will be dancing for joy.

800 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite A150
Los Angeles
Online: fixinssoulkitchen.com

Bloom & Plume Coffee

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Bloom & Plume Coffee via Yelp

This is not your ordinary coffee shop as not only does it serve tasty brewed coffee beans, it offers an aesthetically beautiful atmosphere featuring luscious greenery and art galore meticulously designed by co-owner Maurice Harris. Take time out of your day to enjoy a cup of Auntie Mabel’s Flat White flavored with sea salt.  

1638 W. Temple St.
Los Angeles
Online: bloomandplumecoffee.com

Chicken N Chips

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Crystal N. via Yelp

Bringing Australian-inspired Rotisserie Chicken to Angelenos, Chicken N Chips will satisfy all your chicken sandwich cravings coated with their extraordinary signature rub. Pair your BBQ Fried Chicken Sandwich with their signature fries made with unique herbs and spices.  

2728 Fletcher Dr.
Atwater Village
Online: chickennchips.com

Big Man Bakes

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Bethany N. via Yelp

The Big Man, William “Chip” Brown, was once a physician-in-training, but he is now a bonafide baking star with his moistly sweet cupcakes made to perfection. He has all your favorite traditional yummy cupcake flavors, like red velvet and carrot cake, and takes it to a whole other level with caramel apple (perhaps a nice substitute to apple pie?!) and mounds cupcakes with all the chocolate goodness you could ever dream of.

413 S. Main St.
DTLA
Online: bigmanbakes.com

Poppy & Rose

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Poppy & Rose via Yelp

Because Angelenos love their brunch spots, make sure to check out Poppy & Rose because this restaurant will elevate your brunch game. Best known for its chicken and waffles, they are open until 3 p.m. and serve both breakfast and lunch. Think outside the “brunch” box by ordering their açaí bowl filled with bananas, berries, cacao nibs, wrapped in a coconut bowl that will make your brunch look as delectably crafted as it is tasty.

765 S. Wall St.
DTLA
Online: poppyandrosela.com

 

SOUTH LOS ANGELES

Hilltop Coffee and Kitchen

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Samuel R. via Yelp

This brunch spot is owned by two LA natives who are dedicated to bringing creative spaces that inspire community and connection. They offer nutritious and mouth-watering breakfast and lunch meals all day along with coffee, juices and pastries. They have three locations in the Los Angeles area.

4427 W. Slauson Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: findyourhilltop.com

Azla Ethiopian Eatery

Serving a modern vegan take on Ethiopian food, this restaurant boasts nutritious and delicious food that honors its Ethiopian roots and flavors. They are believers in the value of family and friends coming together around the dinner table to inspire conversation and connections.

4309 Leimert Blvd.
Los Angeles
Online: azlavegan.com

Earle’s

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Earle's via Yelp

What was once a hot dog stand has become LA’s hot dog destination serving the Crenshaw community and the greater Los Angeles area for 30 years. Founded by brothers from Brooklyn, Cary and Duanne Earle, Earle’s offers all the tasty delights of a decadent hot dog with all the fixins made from whole food ingredients. They also have plenty of vegan, vegetarian and Kosher options, including Vegan Wednesdays and Kosher Beef Saturdays. 

3864 Crenshaw Blvd.
Los Angeles
Online: earlesrestaurant.com

 

Swift Cafe

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Christian E. via Yelp

The essence of Swift Cafe captures the importance of offering nutritious and delicious food in communities of color where unhealthy options may be more readily available. Chef-owner Kyndra McCrary has developed an array of wholesome dishes without ever sacrificing taste in consultation with a nutritionist to provide quality food and affordable prices. Their smoothies are like no other, especially the Tiramisu one with all the dessert goodness in one drink. 

4279 1/2 Crenshaw Blvd.
Leimert Park
Online: swift-la.com

Harun Coffee

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Ebony S. via Yelp

This community based coffee shop, gallery and select shop offers coffee imported from Ethiopia and Tanzania which is roasted in Arcadia, CA. Their gallery hosts art shows every 2 months and they also have a shop with a variety of merchandise, such as hats and apparel, from mostly local and artist owned brands.

4336 Degnan Blvd.
Leimert Park
Online: harunintl.com

 

South LA Cafe

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Amanda S. via Yelp

Go to South LA Cafe for the coffee and leave with a deep connection to the community it serves and be inspired to contribute to the worthy causes they support. They provide healthy and affordable food and drinks through their cafe and store. They live and breathe social justice by making positive changes to improve food insecurity among its community members by giving groceries to those in need as well as by promoting health education and resources to its community.

1700 Browning Blvd.
South LA
Online: southlacafe.com

Elaine’s Bread Pudding

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Elaine's Bread Pudding via Yelp

The owner of this dessert shop took the grief he felt from the passing of his mother, Wanda Elaine, to inspire his love of baking which ultimately resulted in a successful baking company specializing in his mama’s signature fresh baked bread pudding. He expanded her recipe to now include 25 different bread pudding flavors all worthy of savoring each bite. Outside of bread pudding, they also offer chocolate and cobblers. They operate through pop-up locations so follow them on Instagram and check their website for more details. 

Online: elainesbreadpudding.com

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

Art Delectables

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Art Delectables via Yelp

Is it possible to have your cake and eat it too without feeling guilty about it? Thanks to Art Delectables, created and owned by pastry chef extraordinaire “Chef Simone,” you most definitely can. Art Delectables is an organic gourmet catering company specializing in cheesecakes and other “delectable” desserts made with wholesome ingredients, all organic, ⅓ of the sugar from a traditional dessert, but with all the sweet-tasting decadence of the desserts you love. They offer a cheesecake bar as well as the most stunning high tea desserts that are displayed with gold leafs and the most beautiful treats.

15215 Keswick St.
Van Nuys
Online: artdelectables.com

Lou, the French on the Block

Norie V. via Yelp

Newly re-opened thanks to the generous donations of community members, this French bakery and cafe brings Paris right to you with their pastries, sandwiches and cakes which are très magnifique. It was created and is owned by a Parisian couple who have mastered the art of French baking one croissant at a time.

4007 W. Riverside Dr. 
Burbank
Online: louthefrenchontheblock.com

Uncle Andre’s BBQ

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Bg C. via Yelp

Tasting their fried chicken alone is worthy of a drive to the Valley to savor in all its Southern culinary goodness.

11715 Moorpark
Studio City
Online: uncleandresbbq.com

Mom's Haus

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Prisma via Yelp

All your Louisiana favorites are served in this family-owned restaurant providing Creole soul recipes with plenty of Southern hospitality and charm to make you feel like you’re in the Big Easy.

14062 Vanowen St.
Van Nuys
Online: eatmomshaus.com

WESTSIDE

Fleurs et Sel

What started as a hobby during the pandemic, has turned into a full-blown successful business and for good reason. Just one cookie in and you'll definitely need to order more. To get your hands on one (or a dozen) of these sweet treats, keep an eye out for Fleurs et Sel's weekly cookie drops via Instagram. Also check-in for pop-up shops around town at fun venues like Platform LA, The Grove and Palisades Village.

Online: instagram.com/fleursetsel

Bayou Grill

Lauren C. via Yelp

Feast in all the tasteful delights of authentic New Orleans cuisine featuring the Tiger Shrimp Po’Boy Sandwich and the most exquisite catfish outside of New Orleans. They serve all the Creole classic favorites like Jambalaya and Gumbo which are made with all the right New Orleans flavors.

1400 N. La Brea Ave.
Inglewood
Online: bayougrille.net

Undergrind Cafe

Irene W. via Yelp

Choose breakfast all day and savor the Spanish Lover Burrito or go veggie with the Veg-Out Burrito. If lunch is more your jam, we recommend trying their signature Gumbo made with a glorious combination of shrimp, chicken, and beef sausage.

2713 S. Robertson Blvd.
Beverlywood
Online: undergrindcafe.com

Honey's Kettle Fried Chicken

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Jessica Y. via Yelp

The absolute best destination to get your fried chicken fix. But, Honey’s Kettle is a feast beyond just fried chicken. You will never get your fill of their homemade honey biscuits, their fresh corn on the cob, or their delectable mashed potatoes with gravy. Beyond that, they have sandwiches, fish ‘n’ chips, and salads to satisfy all your cravings. Don’t forget to wash this all down with their Cool Blueberry Mint Shaker Lemonade.

9537 Culver Blvd.
Culver City
Online: honeyskettle.com

Stuff I Eat

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Nia A. via Yelp

Vegan cooking doesn’t have to be devoid of any flavors. Stuff I Eat brings this point home with its mouth-watering vegan food full of textures and fresh herbs and spices that all come together for one memorable feast. Some of the popular dishes include BBQ Tofu, Mac n Cheese and their Organic Soul Food Platter.

114 N. Market St.
Inglewood
Online: stuffieat.com

 

SOUTHSIDE

Bossy Bundts

If you ever wanted to try a kaleidoscope of bundts in one location, Bossy Bundts is your place. They prepare beautiful bundt cakes with all the flavors you crave including red velvet, strawberry crunch, golden chocolate, and coffee cake. Beyond bundts, they serve cobblers, cookies, brownies, and party treats. Follow them on their Instagram and their website for their latest pop-up locations.

310-817-0873
Online: bossybundts.com

Black-Owned Health, Beauty & Wellness Businesses in Los Angeles

Sole Soul Creations

Founder and owner Shayla Paige created this business of natural healthy beauty products inspired by her own struggles with eczema and her passion for natural beauty ingredients. Sole Soul Creations sells soaps, natural deodorants and luxury body butters in the most beautiful packaging.

Online: solesoulcreations.com

Simply Wholesome

Set in a historical landmark serving its community for over 30 years, Simply Wholesome is a health and wellness combination restaurant and store dedicated to supporting the well-being of its customers through wholesome food choices, nutritional counseling, natural haircare products, and black-owned health products. 

4508 W. Slauson Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: simplywholesome.com

 

 

CurlyKids & CurlyChic Hair

This brand is on a mission to encourage little boys and girls to embrace their natural beautiful curls by providing hair care products that give extra moisture and conditioning while not being sticky, greasy, or heavy at a price affordable to the masses. Their hair products are sold at Walmart, Sally Beauty, Target and Kroger stores as well as online.

Online: curlykidshaircare.com

Kindred Space LA

Their mission is to provide prenatal and postpartum care to members of their community. Co-owners, co-creators and Licensed Midwives, Allegra Hill and Kimberly Durdin run Kindred Space LA which provides complete prenatal support, including screening and lab work, as well as extensive postpartum assistance including lactation consultations. Donate to this community-minded organization by contributing to their latest effort to create a South Los Angeles Birth Center.

2610 Southwest Dr.
Los Angeles
Online: kindredspacela.com

 

Black-Owned Bookstores in Los Angeles

Eso Won Books

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Jolie D. via Yelp

Find everything from children's board books and coffee table books to novels and non-fiction, written by and about African American people. 

4327 Degnan Blvd.
Leimert Park
Online: esowonbookstore.com

Reparations Club

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Reparations Club via Yelp

This unique concept shop and creative space offering books for little ones and grown-ups alike.

4636 W. Washington Blvd.
Mid-city
Online: rep.club

Black-Owned Gift Shops & Home Decor Stores in Los Angeles

Cultural Interiors

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Joi R. via Yelp

Discover treasures and trinkets from the Caribbean, West Africa, Japan, Mexico, South America and beyond. 

4421 W. Slauson Ave.
Windsor Hills
Online: culturalinteriors.com

 

Reflektion Design

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Reflektion Design via Yelp

Find African print fabric and accessories, including face masks, crossbody bags, baskets and more. Fabrics are sourced from around the world, and handmade in Los Angeles and Atlanta.

Online: reflektiondesign.com

Aklia's

Aklia via Yelp

The treasures abound at Aklia's, which has been offering unique treasures and ethnic jewelry for over 25 years.

1515 N. Cahuenga Blvd.
Hollywood
Online: aklias.com

Shades of Afrika

Adeeva M. via Yelp

Located in Long Beach, this "mind, body, spirit shop" offers everything from books and beads to incense and sage. They also carry their own line of hair and skincare products. 

1001 E. 4th St.
Long Beach
Online: shadesofafrika.com

African American Museums & Non-Profits in Los Angeles

The Knowledge Shop

The Knowledge Shop, a secondary education resource for disadvantage kids in LA focused on STREAM Enrichment, founded by Carlton Porter (President/Co-Founder) & Yolande Beckles (CEO/Co-Founder)—were, as one parent said, "Total lifesavers to so many families during the pandemic—helping kids with school and more when so much was remote and many parents were essential workers who couldn’t stay home."

Today they offer Saturday Science for kids, Coding Bootcamp, a vigorous after school program for kids and teens, Sunday piano lessons, summer camps and more. They also offer power empowerment classes for parents and support groups like NAAAPY (National Association of African American Parents and Youth)—an organization that addresses the needs of Black and African American families, and more importantly, those of their children.

2723 W 54th St.
Los Angeles
Online: theknowledgeshopla.com

 

The Underground Museum

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Anne A. via Yelp

This hidden gem is more than an art gallery; it's a family run cultural space, offering free meditation and yoga, along with speakers, movie screenings and more. Reopening at the end of Jan. and we couldn't be more excited. 

3508 W. Washington Blvd.
Los Angeles
Online: theunderground.museum.org

Watts Towers Arts Center Campus

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Ed U. via Yelp

Located in the heart of Watts, The Watts Towers Arts Center provides classes in painting, sculpture, photography, music, dance, and more. During the last weekend of September, Watts Towers Arts Center also produces the Annual Watts Towers Day of the Drum Festival and the Annual Simon Rodia Watts Towers Jazz Festival. 

1727 E. 107th St.
Watts
Online: wattstowers.org

African American Firefighter Museum

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Cheri A. via Yelp

Housed in historic Fire Station 20 in South LA, this off-the-radar museum opened in 1997 to honor the first 100 years of African-American firefighters in LA. It is currently the only free-standing African American Firefighter Museum in the United States. Admission is free!

1401 S. Central Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: aaffmuseum.org

California African American Museum

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CAAM via Yelp

Located in the heart of Exposition Park, CAAM is a hub of resources to explore the African-American diaspora in Los Angeles and beyond. Check out their events, including kids, teens & family workshops.

600 State Dr. 
Exposition Park
Online: caamuseum.org

—Carmen Garcia-Shushtari

Do you have a business you’d like to see included? Email us at blm@tinybeans.com 

Feature image: BJ the Photographer & Simply Wholesome via Yelp

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The Black community has been especially hard hit by the pandemic. Just as much now as ever, local Black-owned businesses and nonprofits need and deserve our support—part of a long-term, sustainable commitment to helping dismantle white supremacy in our community. The following are just a few of just a few of Portland’s awesome, family-friendly, Black-owned businesses and nonprofits.

Willco

Willco

Is your Portland home in need of an update or expansion since becoming your families primary location for work and play? If you are in desperate need of an office addition, bigger kitchen, outside patio space or just a spring paint job, this is the business for you. For growing families, Willco is the general contractor to choose, with their focus on remodeling, historical renovations, and residential and commercial painting. Co-owned by James Garrett and Ruth Warren, Willco’s diverse team of experts have years of experience to take your home projects from dream to reality. Like most small businesses, Warren says, Willco has felt the impacts of the pandemic, but have had the good fortune of remaining open and retaining most of their employees, adjusting policies to provide a safe working environment for all. The Black Lives Matter movement “shines a light and exposes what has been happening for too long,” Warren says. “I am comforted by the marches in my community and the desire to speak up against racism and injustice, and the willingness to listen and have hard conversations.”

5215 S.E. Flavel Dr.
Portland
Online: willcopdx.com

Related: How to Support Local Asian American-Owned Businesses in Portland Now

Mimi's Fresh Tees & PDX Love Over Hate

Mimi's Fresh Tees
If you are looking for some new threads for the family, you want to put these hoodies and tees on your "must buy" list. Founded in January 2018, Mimi’s Fresh Tees is a Portland-based t-shirt company that amplifies tough social justice conversations and allows people to wear their truth. Motivated by systemic racism her Black son experienced in the education system, owner and designer Kamelah Adams wanted to create a product that brought conversations around discrimination out into the open, in a quick and straightforward way. She started designing t-shirts as away for people to take a stand, break the silence and start a dialogue by wearing their truth. 

Buy yours online: mimisfreshteespdx.com

Signs of Justice

Signs of Justice

Jameesa and Bryan Oakley already had a sign printing business, but when Trump was elected, they decided to use their vocation to impact social change. Their online shop now features striking yard signs, bumper stickers, and apparel featuring progressive statements on a range of issues, available for bulk order. Red Tricycle asked the Oakleys what they loves about what they do. "Our graphics bring progressive truths to the mainstream," Jameesa says. "The narrative in America is changing and we believe we played a small role." During the pandemic, the Oakleys have encountered supply chain issues and have had to use their creativity to overcome them. "It tested our resolve," the Oakleys say. "We’re stronger because of it."After the George Floyd murder tapes were released, demand increased more than Signs of Justice could have ever expected, and orders were temporarily delayed. "We couldn’t believe how kind and patient most people were. Love is winning."

9220 S.W. Barbur Blvd., Suite #119-122
Portland
Online: signsofjustice.com

Fat Cupcake

Fat Cupcake

Anjelica Otness started Fat Cupcake for good reasons: she has always loved eating dessert, she enjoys the creativity of decorating cupcakes, and she wanted to create an environment where people feel loved, welcome, and known. “I love sharing the joy of a cupcake and celebrating exciting life events or being there when things are challenging,” Otness says. She jokes, “It's also a perk to be able to eat a treat whenever you want." In the wake of the pandemic, Fat Cupcake has added extra safety precautions to prioritize team members’ and guests’ health and safety. And with the world’s increased support for the Black Lives Matter movement, Otness says they’ve seen a tremendous amount of support from the local community in placing orders, coming in for the first time, and promoting Fat Cupcake.

19273 Molalla Ave.
Oregon City, OR

6011 S.E. 72nd Ave.
Portland

13203 S.E. 172nd Ave.
Happy Valley, OR
Online: fatcupcake.com

Related: Our Favorite Portland Sweet Shops to Treat Youself (or Someone You Love)

The Black Parent Initiative

This nonprofit was created in 2006, to assist Black parents in developing critical parenting skills and in learning to be great advocates for their children's health, education and well-being. The Black Parent Initiative starts with a deep love for the community, striving to serve them well by being a constant anchor for them. BPI says helping Black families recognize their intrinsic value, beauty and capacity is the best part about their work. During the pandemic, BPI has had to adjust how they deliver services, but continues to do home visits via Facetime and Zoom, lead groups, offer doula lactation consulting, and continue with family and school engagement and employment services, by using technology and social distancing. BPI is grateful for the outpouring of love from our greater community in light of the Black Lives Matter movement. They continue to work to alleviate the stress and trauma that results from the ongoing onslaught of violence and domestic terrorism against Black people.

2915 N.E. Martin Luther King Blvd.
Portland
Online: thebpi.org

Flouriche Preschool

Paula Rogers/ Flouriche

With over 24 years of experience working with children, Paula Rogers founded Reggio-inspired Flouriche preschool with the intention to combine the best of three guiding principles for developing minds: flourish, nourish, and niche. “The best part is the laughter and natural compassion that I am privileged to witness every day,” Rogers says. During the pandemic, the community has had to adjust to many changes designed to keep kids safe, from daily health checks to rotating mealtimes in order to reduce the number of children at the table. They’ve also begun incorporating Zoom circle times to include children who are unable to come to Flouriche, in order to help children feel connected. Flouriche stands in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement that is resounding all over the world, and has started a Facebook group for discussion around the history of racism. Rogers says she loves idea sharing and would love to connect with other diverse preschools in Portland, as well as develop a scholarship program for children who want to attend Flouriche but may not be able to afford it.

Online: flouriche.com

Related: Women-Owned Businesses in Portland Families Love

The Black Resilience Fund

In response to the devastating effects of the pandemic on the Black community, and the most recent deaths in the continuation of horrific, systemic racist violence in the U.S., Portlanders Cameron Whitten and Salomé Chimuku launched the Black Resilience Fund as an opportunity for non-Black allies to support the resilience of Black people in the local community. Black Resilience Fund is a program of nonprofit Brown Hope and is dedicated to fostering healing and resilience by providing immediate and direct financial assistance to Black Portlanders. The fund provides immediate support for Black Portlanders in the form of a warm meal, groceries, and unpaid bills. Chimuku has over a decade of experience in public sector work, working with organizations such as Portland State University, the Urban League of Portland, and Unite Oregon, and Whitten has served as Executive Director of local nonprofits such as Know Your City, Brown Hope, and Q Center. 

Online: blackresiliencefund.com

 

Deadstock Coffee

Jessie Z. via Yelp

With a slogan of “coffee should be dope” and sneaker-themed art, this is the hippest coffee shop in town, for sure. But it’s not all style: the coffee, which is roasted in-house, is some of the city’s best blends, like the chocolatey Nenemar or the fruitier Fresh Prince. Grab your beans to grind at home, or order a drink for the signature sneaker latte art.

408 N.W. Couch St.
Portland
Online: deadstockcoffee.com

Related: Beloved Drive-Thru & Pick-Up Coffee Shops for Busy Portland Parents

Felton and Mary

As a spicy ode to his beloved grandparents, Felton and Mary Campbell, Tory Campbell has created a myriad of Texas-style BBQ sauces and rubs made right here in Portland. Felton and Mary were restaurant owners and community-builders in SE Portland in the 80s with their renowned BBQ joint Campbell’s. By infusing the love and generosity of his grandparents into their sauce recipes for a new generation, Felton and Mary is spreading the homegrown BBQ love one jar at a time. Order online or find them at a growing list of local stores like New Seasons.

Online: feltonandmary.com

Hue Noir

Hue Noir

In a business that doesn't always cater to darker complexions, founder Paula Hayes is out to change that. Her mission is to empower women to look and feel their best while changing the face of beauty by putting multicultural women at the center of modern beauty movement. A product chemist herself, Hayes combines scientific-based research and development with leading color and light technology into gorgeous products like flawless foundation, perfectly tinted lip butters, and show-stopping eyeshadow. Products are mostly made from natural ingredients, and are cruelty free, hypoallergenic, and noncomedogenic. It's time to go shopping!

Online: huenoir.com

A Kids Book About

It’s hard to know how to approach tough topics with kids, like racism, divorce, or bullying. Founder Jelani Memory, who grew up Black in Portland, wanted a better way to open those talks with his white kids. A Kids Book About Racism, written in a simple and direct format, was born in 2018, and today the company spans over 75 books on topics like shame, grief, boredom, and addiction. But he’s not stopping there, expanding into podcasts and other media to help everyone tell better stories.

Online: akidsbookabout.com

Abbey Creek Vineyards

In an industry that’s fortified by tradition, Abbey Creek blasts hip hop instead. As the first recorded Black winemaker in Oregon, Bertoy Faustin has created a welcoming community space for everyone who loves wine. The vineyard and wine production are in North Plains, the rolling hills to the west of Portland where the namesake creek runs through. The tasting room, “The Crick,” is firmly in downtown, a community space with a relaxed vibe and a corner store.

Bonus, check out the website to watch the award-winning documentary Red, White and Black, about minority winemakers in the state.

912 S.W. Morrison St.
Portland
Online: abbeycreekvineyard.com

Related: Sips with Sippy Cups: Kid-Friendly Wineries to Hit Now

Taking Ownership PDX

While no action can undo the decades of systemic racism and redlining, Taking Ownership is an inspired community group banding together to fight gentrification. By assisting Black homeowners who request help, they can help people generate wealth and dispel predatory investors. Their inspiring projects range from replacing a roof, building new fences, cleaning up a backyard, or repairing a deck, and they are always welcoming volunteers! These small actions in Portland’s Black communities help make a more welcoming city, house by house.

Online: takingownershippdx.com

EcoVibe PDX

EcoVibe via Yelp

At home on Alberta Street in NE Portland, owner Len Allen comes from generations of NE Portlanders. His store offers a beautiful array of plants, gardening supplies, home decor like baskets, mirrors and throw pillows, and more. They also donate a percentage of each sale to non profits working in the community to better the planet and society.

1906 N.E. Alberta St.
Portland
Online: ecovibestyle.com

This is just a small sample of the many amazing Black-owned businesses and nonprofits in the Portland area. Visit the BlackPDX.com directory for more, where you can search by industry and location. Also check out Support Black-Owned Portland Restaurants, an extensive online directory and annual event.

It’s fair to say that 2020 has possibly not been the best of times, but it’s equally fair to say that you don’t have to look too hard to find the helpers out there, throwing kindness around like confetti. We’ve selected 11 local moms and dads who remind us that it only takes one good idea and some gumption to make a big difference in the lives of others. Read on to discover Atlanta parents who are making a difference every day.

Fran & Mary, Tiny Activists

Tiny Activists Atlanta

What They Did: Moved by George Floyd's cry to his mother during the last moments of his life, Atlanta moms Fran Carroll and Mary Williams formed Tiny Activists as as way for families with young children to learn how to safely speak out to support others and feel empowered to do it again, and again. While there were protests all over Atlanta over the summer, Covid-19 and the threat of violence near the sites of planned marches made it hard to navigate a traditional protest or march. However, an estimated thousand people attended Tiny Activists first planned march, proving that young families felt the need to get involved, include their small children, but it had to be a safe environment.

How They Helped: Tiny Activists gives children the tools to organize and stand up for what they believe, so that when they grow up, they can be the leaders that create change. Tiny Activists create opportunities for young people to get involved, learn how to use their voice, and be leaders. They hope that by training kids today, they will train their kids, and the cycle will continue. It has to start somewhere, so Tiny Activists is a good place to begin.

What Comes Next: After hundreds of people joined Tiny Activists on Facebook, and continued to reach out, saying, “What’s next?,” they decided to create a community where they could teach small people how to find their voice and stand up for people who are needing help. One of the most difficult things for Tiny Activists to manage has been Covid-19, so until infection count declines, they've turned to creating a non-profit to gather funds to build and broaden the Tiny Activists message. They're still brewing ideas and plan to move forward, and hope to keep the momentum alive.

Find Them Here:
facebook.com/tinyactivistsatl
#tinyactivistsatl

Breanna, Good Samaritan Center

Good Samaritan Health Center

What She Did: Breanna Lathrop is the COO and Family Nurse Practitioner at Good Samaritan Center. She’s also a wife and mother of small children. Breanna helped launch a helpline that has taken over 11,000 calls since March, providing accurate information on COVID-19, consultations for callers with symptoms, and scheduling testing both at Good Sam and throughout the metro area. She also worked with Good Sam to forge a partnership with CVS Health, and  opened a rapid COVID-19 testing center in the Good Sam health pavilion, currently testing 100-130 people each day. Additionally, she helped Good Sam create an isolated triage room to see patients with symptoms of COVID-19. Every single person who came to their doors seeking care and advice regarding COVID-19 was been seen by a health care provider.

How She Helped: Breanna's commitment to quality care for all resulted in—and continues to impact—the overall health of Atlantans. Regardless of income, patients who go to Good Sam are treated. Breanna helped navigate this already lofty expectation through a pandemic that placed even more strain—and importance—on the efforts being made to provide high quality medical, dental, mental health, specialty, and health education services to individuals and families in Atlanta that could not otherwise afford it.

What Comes Next: Breanna's work at Good Sam will continue, and they are encouraged by the constant support from individuals, corporations, Churches, families, and grants that help them fulfill their mission.

Check It Out: 
goodsamatlanta.org

Isabel & Lisa, Compassion Kitchen

The Compassion Kitchen Project

What They Did: Lisa Blanco and Isabel Rice, mothers and founders of The Compassion Kitchen Project, saw an opportunity to help both those suffering from food insecurity as well as restaurant industry workers by simplifying the process of connecting the two. The Compassion Kitchen was created to connect the food needs in our community with locally-owned restaurants. They use tax deductible donations to pay restaurants to make meals for non-profits—and for those suffering from food insecurity—providing both income for restaurant employees and much-needed support for nonprofits that serve the homeless and others in crisis.

How They Helped: In its first 16 weeks, The Compassion Kitchen Project raised over $140,000, engaged over 100 volunteers to help deliver meals, prepared over 1,000 “Compassion To-Go” bags (created for people living on the streets, in cars and in transient housing) with non-perishable food items and delivered 44,021 healthy meals. In the first 3 weeks of Together We Eat—a program where they've partnered with some of Atlanta’s private schools to pick up and deliver their extra school lunches to those most in need—they have delivered over 3,000 meals.

What Comes Next: When Lisa and Isabel first started this project, it was going to be a 4-6 week effort to provide relief during the pandemic. Realizing this pandemic is going to be with us longer than any of us had hoped, the duo plan to operate The Compassion Kitchen Project as long as there is a need, and they have the funding to provide more meals through partnerships and collaboration.

Find Them Here:
facebook.com

 

 

Jessi & Ashley, Signs of Change

Jessie Carr

What They Did: Friends Ashley Cocchi-Miller and Jessi Carr wanted to find a visual way to show solidarity with their Black neighbors after the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbury. Starting by posting a message about ordering signs in Neighbor, they hoped to get enough interest in order to place a bulk order for 50 signs from a local Black-owned print shop, Best Print and Design in Decatur. Within four days, they received close to 450 neighbors reaching out to order signs, quickly ordering another 500—and more, since then—after the news spread and more community members wanted to purchase signs for their yards. They reached out in conversation with neighbors, and cite the most impactful as the ones with neighbors of color, Carr's husband included, who shared how meaningful it was to see white neighbors expressing the sentiment that Black lives are important and worth fighting for. It symbolized that they are welcome, valuable members of the community.

How They Helped: Posting a Black Lives Matter sign became a way voice support and solidarity with Black neighbors—especially during quarantine—and to speak out against police brutality and other injustices faced by Black people in the United States. The duo funnels all the proceeds into national organizations working on a macro-level for racial justice, having donated $17,000 already with plans to keep the momentum going until at least November 3.

What Comes Next: "For ATL Signs of Change, I know we will continue to be involved in the fight for social and racial justice. We refuse to look the other way or be silenced—we will continue to use our privilege to speak out against oppression and lead our community in healing the wrongs of our culture and government."

Find Them Here:
facebook.com/ATLSignsofChange
@atlsignsofchange

Tamara Gonzalez, Front Steps Project

Tamara Gonzalez

What She Did: Tamara Gonzalez, a professional photographer and mom, offered free 5-minute photo sessions of families on their front steps in exchange for a donation directly to Piedmont Hospital. Families were given one digital download image. These were socially-distanced portraits taken with a telephoto lens, often from across the street, or across clients yards in bushes to get the shot. The majority of funds that families contributed went to the Piedmont Healthcare COVID-19 Infrastructure Fund. that was set up for critical need areas such as: Drive-Thru Testing Sites, Reconfiguring Labs for On-Site COVID-19 Testing, Hospital Modifications to increase ICU capacity, and Equipment, Technology and Operating Costs (including ventilator purchases, PPE, and all associated support). Together, more than 30 families participated in the Front Steps Project Atlanta, raising over $3,000 for Piedmont Hospital.

How She Helped: "The goal for the Front Steps Project Atlanta was my way to help the frontline workers at Piedmont Hospital, while also helping families maintain some semblance of connection and positivity while we were in lockdown." Tamara raised over $3,000 through the photos she captured for more than 30 families for Piedmont Hospital, earmarked for critical need areas such as: Drive-Thru Testing Sites, Reconfiguring Labs for On-Site COVID-19 Testing, Hospital Modifications to increase ICU capacity, and Equipment, and Technology and Operating Costs (including ventilator purchases, PPE, and all associated support).

What Comes Next: Families whose pictures were taken by Tamara will have a forever imprint of what they looked like during this at-home period in their lives. She continues to take family photographs, though less frequently from the neighbor's landscaping bed.

Find Her Here:
tkgphotography.com
facebook.com/tamaragpics
@tamaragpics

Sgt. Paxson, Atlanta Police Department

APD

What He Did: Sgt. Paxson is a 10-year veteran of the Atlanta Police Department and a father of 3 who currently serves as the director of Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta, which offers cash rewards for tips on crimes. This year, Crime Stoppers helped solve the case of Secoriea Turner—an 8 year-old who was shot and killed on the Fourth of July as she rode in her mother's car. He is also the most tenured person on the Civil Disturbance Unit.

How He Helps: As part of Crime Stoppers, he takes a hands-on approach to getting to know the community, purchasing gifts for kids during the holidays and bringing ice-cream on hot summer days. And as a supervisor, he makes sure that officers know they have a duty to intervene and stop any abuse of power they see.

What Comes Next: According to Sgt. Paxson, one of the things we need in Atlanta "is for the community to come forward and help us. We need good police officers who can become great police officers of all races. We need police officers who represent the City of Atlanta, and be the change they want to see."

Find Him Here:
facebook.com/AtlantaPoliceDpt

Michelle & Hallie, Operation Feed

Hallie Olsen

What They Did: Michelle Martin and Hallie Olsen are Atlanta Public School moms who pulled together a crack team of parents and teachers at E. Rivers Elementary School who refused to let any child in their school community go without food. What began as outreach to those in their school has expanded to now impact schools throughout the North Atlanta cluster. 

How They Helped: With an unexpected and extended closure of school beginning in March, 2020, Michelle and Hallie began to worry about the impact—beyond the A, B, and C's—of the pandemic on families in their school community who might be facing food insecurity. Since then, they've set up 8 distributions to residents in a targeted neighborhood, along with delivering boxes of food to 20 offsite locations. Boxes are filled with either produce, canned goods, snacks, home care items, or with basic cooking staples, in addition to other delivered items, such as cereal, detergent, soups, bread, and tortillas.

What Comes Next: Operation Feed is currently applying for its 501(c)(3) status as Hallie, Michelle, and their team of parent and teacher volunteers intend for it to be a long term partner to APS schools, beginning with those in the North Atlanta cluster. They plan to work with stakeholders in each school to help identify needs that might exist well beyond the closure of the pandemic.

Find Them Here:
operationfeedatl.org
facebook.com/OperationFeedATL

 

—Shelley Massey

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Stuffed. That’s how most of us feel after the holidays. We’ve eaten too much, spent too much, and our homes are stuffed to the gills with toys. Now’s the time to clean up the Christmas carnage and cull some of our kids’ less-loved toys by donating them to one of Atlanta’s awesome organizations supporting children and families. Whether you fill up your donation boxes as part of a family activity or do it on your own in the stealth of preschool hours, you’ll be making a difference not only to your shelves, but to Atlanta families in need.

Salvation Army
We’re all familiar with the Salvation Army’s thrift stores and disaster relief efforts, but you may have missed the memo about the Red Shield Services of the Salvation Army. Providing shelter for families with children 365 days a year, the Salvation Army does more than feed the homeless. They provide a home to hundreds of Atlanta children every year. Donate clothes, household items, and well-loved toys, and the best news? They’ll come to you!

Salvation Army Atlanta, Multiple locations, Click here to schedule a pick-up or locate the nearest drop-off location

Atlanta Mission
Serving women and children in need, the Atlanta Mission operates a 264-bed residential facility called My Sister’s House, which provides shelter alongside referrals to job training programs and a childcare facility staffed with a behavioral specialist and social workers. Also serving the homeless is the Atlanta Day Shelter, a campus offering job readiness programs, medical care, computer training, and mental health counseling to an average of 140 women and children each day.

Atlanta Mission, Click here to schedule a pick-up or locate the nearest drop-off location

The Atlanta Children’s Shelter
Located in the North Avenue Presbyterian Church, this shelter provides free, quality daycare for homeless children, and resources for their families. Founded by the Junior League of Atlanta in 1986, the ACS has provided care for nearly 8,000 children from 5,000 families, and maintains its mission to help families overcome the root causes of homelessness. The bottom line? It’s a great home for those toys collecting dust on your shelves.

The Atlanta Children’s Shelter, 607 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30308, 404-892-3713

Sheltering Arms
Georgia’s oldest nonprofit childcare provider, Sheltering Arms serves working families with affordable child care, education, and support services. Each of its 17 centers in Atlanta’s seven metro counties acts as a hub for community outreach for familial support services, and over 3,600 children ages six weeks to five years old are served annually.

Sheltering Arms, 385 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta 30313, 404-523-2767

Society of St. Vincent de Paul
Offering programs to support families in crisis, including education, training, meals, and temporary housing, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul funds these incredible outreach initiatives partially through the sales of their 10 thrift stores throughout Atlanta. The society’s mission is to help get families back on their feet, with its St. Michael’s House created specifically for homeless women and their children ages 12 and younger.

Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Drop-off locations at Holy Spirit (4465 Northside Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30327) and at Christ the King (2699 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30305)

The Junior League of Atlanta
Focused on improving the health, education and welfare of women and children in Atlanta, the Junior League partners with over 90 non-profit organizations throughout the community. Revenue from its Nearly New Shop provides needed funds to support initiatives such as after-school programs for at-risk girls, temporary housing for women and children fleeing domestic violence, and career counseling and childcare for the homeless.

The Junior League of Atlanta, Nearly New Shop, 1715 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30318, 404-355-3547

What do you do with your old toys? Sharing is caring, so tell us about it below!

—Shelley Massey

Photos courtesy of The Junior League of Atlanta via FacebookSociety of St. Vincent de Paul via FacebookAtlanta Children’s Shelter via Facebook and Creative Commons via Flickr