Celebrating Our January Mini-Grant Winners!
We are excited to announce the January winners of our KeyBank-sponsored $1,000 Mini-Grant program along the Fourth Plain Corridor: USSD Vancouver and Mi Casa Pupuseria and Mexican Restaurant! These two amazing businesses are using the grant funds to improve their services and make a positive impact on their communities.
Chief Instructor Master Matt Quinlan and his students at USSD Vancouver
USSD Vancouver
At United Studios of Self Defense (USSD) Vancouver, their mission is to help students and the community grow through the magic of martial arts. With the new mini-grant, USSD Vancouver will purchase a brand-new refrigerator to provide healthier snack options for their scholarship kids. They will also upgrade their bathroom fixtures, making their facility even better for everyone who comes through the door. By doing this, USSD Vancouver continues to empower its students and community members to overcome emotional, mental, and physical challenges, helping them become the best versions of themselves.
Roberto, Owner of Mi Casa Pupuseria and Mexican Restaurant proudly poses next to his new ice maker. The restaurant is located at 3320 E 4th Plain Blvd #D, Vancouver, WA 98661
Mi Casa Pupuseria and Mexican Restaurant
Mi Casa Pupuseria Restaurant is a local favorite that serves delicious Salvadorean and Mexican food. Last summer, their ice maker broke, and they had to buy bags of ice every day to keep their restaurant running. Thanks to the $1,000 mini-grant, Mi Casa Pupuseria and Mexican Restaurant purchased a new commercial ice maker. This change will not only save them money but also ensure that their food and drinks are always served with perfectly chilled ice. Their new ice maker is a game-changer, letting them focus on what they do best – serving tasty food and making customers happy.
A Boost for Our Community
Both USSD Vancouver and Mi Casa Pupuseria Restaurant are great examples of how local businesses can make a big difference when they get the right support. These mini-grants are designed to help BIPOC small business owners along the Fourth Plain Corridor overcome challenges and grow their businesses. Whether it’s by providing healthier food options for kids or saving money on daily expenses, every improvement counts.
We are proud to support these hardworking businesses and celebrate their success. They remind us that with a little help and a lot of dedication, small changes can lead to big improvements for the community.
Stay tuned for more updates on our mini-grant program and the many inspiring stories from the Fourth Plain Corridor. Congratulations to USSD Vancouver and Mi Casa Pupuseria and Mexican Restaurant – your success is a win for us all!