Sderot's small businesses are collapsing.

March 5, 2008 / 28 Adar I 5768

Small business owners in Sderot and the Gaza perimeter communities are waging a harrowing battle to survive. Due to the never ending Kassam rocket attacks, local industry has collapsed. The Jewish Agency, with the generous support of UJC-Federations of North America, and in conjunction with the Tel Aviv municipality, is bringing these small businesses to the heart of Tel Aviv.

The main shopping area in Sderot stands empty in the middle of the day.

On Sunday and Monday, March 9th and 10th, over 100 small business owners will participate in a business fair in Tel Aviv, where they will sell their products and promote their services. "Many Israelis want to show solidarity with the people of Sderot, but they are hesitant to travel to the region," says the Jewish Agency's Yael Raz. "This fair will give people from all over the opportunity to strengthen Sderot's small business owners and show them that they are not alone."

Business has come to a standstill in Sderot.

The types of businesses participating include clothing, shoes, sports equipment, houseware, stationery and jewelry stores, artist galleries, bakeries, travel agencies, caterers, event planners, electricians, technicians, small renovation contractors, and restaurant owners. In addition to the booths, the event will feature performances by singers and musicians from Sderot.

The fair is being promoted as a major happening in Tel Aviv, and is expected to attract tens of thousands of people.