Written by Nicholas Vetrisek
In response to the second round of forced closures by Gov. Gavin Newsom, San Diego City Councilman Chris Cate and County Supervisor Jim Desmond launched the Breweries Experiencing Economic Roadblocks (BEER) Fund. The fund is designed to help breweries that are now struggling as a result of their re-closure.
Honored to join Supervisor @jim_desmond and the @sdbrewers at @SocieteBrewing today to announce the Breweries Experiencing Economic Relief (BEER) Fund. I made a personal commitment to raising $5,000 for this fund. https://t.co/SkQqG3NZSV (1/2) pic.twitter.com/xjjCXHVbc9
— Chris Cate (@chrisjcate) July 10, 2020
The craft beer industry is important to San Diego, both as a major tourist attraction and a primary driver of economic growth. In 2018 alone, the craft beer industry contributed more than $1 billion to the local economy. In addition, the industry employs over 6,000 people.
“One quarter of the city’s breweries are in my council district. I have been steadfast with my support for this industry,” said Councilman Cate. “Proactively establishing the Breweries Experiencing Economic Roadblocks (BEER) Fund, just for the breweries and their employees, will help this vital industry get through this difficult time.”
In addition to helping start the fund, Cate has also pledged $5,000 to the fund. “Let’s show these breweries how much they mean to us, and how much we want them to keep making great San Diego beer.”
Craft breweries are doing everything they can to keep their lights on, & pay their employees. They need our help NOW. Let’s show these breweries how much they mean to us, & how much we want them to keep making great San Diego beer: https://t.co/SkQqG3NZSV @sdbrewers @jim_desmond https://t.co/uvwZC3YPPD
— Chris Cate (@chrisjcate) July 10, 2020
The County has more than 150 breweries and the City of San Diego alone has 93. The craft beer industry is essential to the economic strength and character of the San Diego community. If these breweries were to shut down, millions—if not billions—of dollars would be lost. If you would like to help support the fund, you can go to the BEER fund’s Go Fund Me page.
