Anita Street Market: Looking for a Christmas Miracle
TUCSON, Ariz. — A local Midtown market is teetering on the brink of closure after being owned and operated by the same family since 1986. However, hope is not lost as they fight to keep their beloved business afloat.
The 39th annual Nana and Tata’s Miracle in Barrio Anita, held at Anita Street Market located at 849 N. Anita Ave, brought together community members in an effort to save the market from foreclosure. The event, a cherished holiday tradition, aimed to raise funds through various activities, including live music, free toys for kids, and even a visit from Santa Claus.
For Grace Soto, the owner of Anita Street Market, the business holds special meaning as it was passed down to her from her grandparents. Over the years, it has become a neighborhood icon, renowned for its mouthwatering handmade flour tortillas.
However, the future of the market hangs in the balance as Soto reveals they desperately need close to $100,000 to ward off the looming threat of foreclosure, expected to occur on Sunday, Jan. 17.
Undeterred by the financial challenges, Soto remains resolute and sends a message of strength to fellow struggling small businesses. I just want to say to all small businesses, si se puede, and don’t give up if you’re struggling, she said. I hope that we can make way to give markets and small businesses of any kind more support so they can keep thriving and making Tucson what it is.
The arrival of Madison Thomas, a multimedia journalist with KGUN 9, brings new hope to shed light on this pressing issue within the community. As a proud Arizona State University graduate, Thomas is eager to dive into the stories of the place she calls home. She welcomes community members to share their ideas and concerns by reaching out to her via email at madison.thomas@kgun9.com or through her social media channels on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.
In a time when small businesses continue to face immense challenges, Anita Street Market’s plight is a reminder of the importance of supporting local enterprises. Their struggle not only affects the livelihood of the Soto family but also impacts the very fabric of the community they have faithfully served.
As we witness the resilience of Anita Street Market, it is crucial for us as a society to rally around small businesses, ensuring they receive the assistance needed to thrive in these difficult times. By doing so, we can preserve the unique character and vibrancy that make places like Tucson truly special.
Let us all come together this holiday season and be part of Anita Street Market’s Christmas miracle, keeping the spirit of this cherished institution alive for generations to come.
