U.S. Senator Visits Harlem Eatery To Advocate For Community Funding

HARLEM, NY — New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited Harlem on Monday to host an event calling for expanded community funding.

Gillibrand, partnering with the Carver Federal Savings Bank, led a press conference outside of Settepani Bakery at 196 Lenox Ave., to announce her support for $340 million in increased funding for Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI), and $56 million for the Small Business Administration's micro-loan program.

"This money is here for growth, innovation, and entrepreneurism so communities like Harlem can continue to grow and thrive," Gillibrand said.

CDFI's aim to expand economic opportunity for underserved people and communities by supporting grown of community development lenders.

The event also featured female leaders in the Harlem business world. including Settepani's owner Leah Abraham, Brownstone Boutique owner Princess Jenkins, and Melba's Restaurant owner Melba Wilson.

“Carver has been in the Harlem community for 75 years and is still growing strong," Carver Bank President and CEO Michael Pugh said during the press conference.

Carver Bank is also part of a current partnership operating the Harlem Multicultural Small Business Innovation Lab, which is a month and a half long program designed to empower local entrepreneurs to start businesses in the uptown community.

The program will end with a pitch competition, with first place earning $16,000, second place earning $12,000 and third place receiving $7,000.