Burkburnett boost local businesses with "Love Thy Neighbor" program
By: David Gonzalez
Updated: September 19, 2012
In today's economy, businesses across Texoma are struggling to remain open but Burkburnett community leaders have created a program to keep their businesses up and running.
The Burkburnett Development Corporation in helps promote current businesses and entices others to come into town.
They've created a new program that encourages shopping local and keeping tax revenue in the community.
Keith Meyers, president of the BDC and local business owner, and other members of the BDC are extending a helping hand by creating the "Love Thy Neighbor, Shop Local" program.
Meyers says, "Through this we have seen businesses that it gives them a good feeling in knowing that they are not out there on their own. They've got an organization already established that is going to try to help get local people into their businesses."
Dozens of businesses participating in the program have signs posted on their doors or windows that let customers know they are part of the "Love Thy Neighbor" program in hopes of getting more people to walk through their doors.
Jerry Hayes General Store is one of those businesses of the participating store.
Jerry Hayes says he's seen an increase in area residents ready to support local shops.
"I think it is a big help to any business whether it is an old business or a new business that is just trying to get started.
Hayes says programs like "Love Thy Neighbor" are needed to keep mom and pop stores open.
I think there needs to be some awareness that the local community does need to shop right here locally and help the businesses within town grow which in turn will support the local community," Hayes exclaims.
An awareness and support Meyers says is not going away anytime soon.
THe BDC has received positve feedback and also has other programs in place like Cab Mob.
In Cash Mob, organziers email residents about a certain business and residents are encourgaed to go in and spend at least $20.
For more information on the "Love Thy Neighbor, Shop Local" program, visit their Facebook page.
