Metro’s Business Interruption Fund was started to assist small businesses that may be impacted by construction of Metro’s Crenshaw/LAX line, the Little Tokyo area along the Regional Connector and Phase I of the Purple Line Extension.

Nearly $1 million in grants have been awarded since the first checks were distributed to qualifying merchants in April. The fund aims to provide assistance so that affected businesses can remain open throughout construction and realize the benefits of the new rail lines once completed. 

In the weeks ahead, we’ll be spotlighting a few of the businesses and their owners that have received assistance from the fund.

Southern Girl Desserts

Southern Girl Desserts co-founders Catarah Hampshire and Shoneji Robison. (Photo: Gary Leonard/Metro)

Southern Girl Desserts was started in 2008 by co-founders Catarah Hamsphire and Shoneji Robison. The pair moved the bakery to the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Mall in 2012.

Since 2008, Southern Girl Desserts has earned a reputation as one of the top dessert bakeries in Los Angeles. Through their desserts, the pair aims to remind or introduce their customers to the unique flavors found only in the South.

Along with their storefront in the mall, Southern Girl also has a growing catering division for weddings, bridal and baby showers, and parties.

Both Ms. Hampshire and Robison have expressed excitement about the Crenshaw/LAX line and what it means for the future of their business. The grant they received from the Business Interruption Fund will allow them to get caught up and provide some breathing room.

To learn more about Metro’s Business Improvement Fund or how to apply for a grant, visit the Pacific Coast Regional Small Business Development Corp (PCR).

Previous spotlights: Sense Fashion, Lula Washington Dance Company