A group of small business leaders, local government representatives, and business support organizations including Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership, Town of Chapel Hill, and The Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro, met on Sunday, July 23^rd, 2023, to discuss response efforts to the fire on Saturday, July 22, in Downtown Chapel Hill that has affected several businesses in the 400 Block of West Franklin Street. The group expressed their appreciation and gratitude to the Chapel Hill and Carrboro Fire Departments and the surrounding emergency response agencies. Their immediate response and scene control prevented any public injuries and allowed for the fire to be extinguished efficiently. The following businesses have been affected by fire, smoke, or water damage: Mediterranean Deli, Bakery, and Catering, D.B Sutton, Moshi Moshi, Simply Audrey, and Tropical Smoothie.

A GoFundMe has been established and is being managed by the Mediterranean Deli Staff. The fund is prioritizing the financial support of employees.

The group asks the community to be patient as the needs of the affected business are being assessed. More information will be communicated tomorrow and after this group reconvenes during the week.

Questions can be directed to Stephanie Cobert, Director of Marketing, Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership: P: (919)928-5637 | E: stephanie@downtownchapelhill.com