MILWAUKEE — Small restaurants and businesses in the Milwaukee area are getting creative to make sure they can survive the closures caused by COVID-19.
The Sherman Phoenixis usually abuzz with life. Monday morning though, it was extremely quiet since no customers are allowed inside. However, the businesses that inhabit the building are evolving to keep money coming in. At Funky Fresh Spring Rolls, they're getting creative.
"We're selling frozen rolls," TrueMan McGee, owner of Funky Fresh Spring Rolls said. "Packed and delivered right to our customers front steps."
McGee says they had over 40 orders for more than 100 spring rolls. It's something he's not taking for granted.
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"We get business from people coming into our business," McGee said. "Finding more creative ways to get our product out has been the new mission."
McGee filled up the back of his pickup with the non-traditional spring rolls and set out on his route to deliver the product he's proud to serve. He says he's extremely appreciative of the folks supporting his business and wants them to know how much it means to him and his employees.
"People will not forget how you treated them during this time," McGee said. "So it's important for me to treat people amazingly during this time."
"I'd feel bad," Satra Harris said when McGee dropped off her spring rolls. "When you see someone start from the beginning and grow something that helps the community, gives back, you want to help facilitate that for them. To lose that would be detrimental."
Harris says she's making more of an effort to help places like McGee's during this trying time.
"Whatever we can do, small or large, to support each other," Harris said. "I think this is a time when you have to come together."
Of course, her contribution will help keep Funky Fresh Spring Rolls alive. However, it's doing a lot more than just keeping the lights on.
"We have close to ten employees we are essentially responsible for," McGee said. "Something like this happens that could potentially affect their families. For me, that was so important to keep going for them as well because they have people depending on them."