A Southern Illinois fundraiser to help businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic announced its first round of grant recipients.
Southern Illinois Strong said it will be awarding 18 local small businesses with a $1,500 grant starting this week.
The following businesses were chosen by a random lottery to receive the funds:
Kite Hill Vineyards, Carbondale
The Apple Tree Gift Shop, Murphysboro
The Waffle Company, Mt. Vernon
Wildlife Materials, Murphysboro
Hakuna Matata Kid Care, Inc., Steeleville
Kruz Kennel Service Inc., Waterloo
Main Street T's, DuQuoin
Mann's Sporting Goods, Pinckneyville
Drakes Jewelry LLC, Benton
Extreme Exigency LLC, Benton
Midwest Music Supply, Marion
Tino's on the Tee, Whittington
Cristaudo's LLC, Carbondale
Curl E Q Salon, Harrisburg
Ned's Shed LLC, Vienna
Silver Collections, Metropolis
Sixth & Vintage Boutique & Market, Metropolis
Southern Illinois Inflatables LLC, Harrisburg