Junk in the Trunk is one of the many businesses that received a Mainstreet Preservation Grant. Here is a message from owner, Tonia Steffey:
“I started Junk in the Trunk in 2015 in the hopes of not only bringing in extra income for my family, but to also be able to share my love of antiques and cool old junk. I have always been one of those people that can see a broken down old dresser, table, etc. and turn it into a one-of-a-kind unique piece. I also started my own line of bath and body products including candles, body butter, soaps, bath bombs, hand sanitizers, and much more. I have approximately 30 vendors in my store that also share their love of homemade crafts, home décor, clothing, antiques, and vintage items. We have 5000 square feet of amazing treasures. Together we have such a huge variety of stuff that you could get lost for hours and never see it all.
“This store has become our family’s main source of income and without it, I could not take care of my family of six that need me to succeed. As a mom, you want the best for your family and will do whatever you can to make sure they are taken care of.
“In March the Covid-19 pandemic hit and everyone was told to ‘Stay Home,Stay Safe,’ This cut our business down over 75%. We are located on the highway between Roosevelt and Vernal, and relying a lot on travel traffic has really crushed our income. We still have a few loyal local customers that come in to see us, but without the foot traffic we just can’t survive. Even the customers that do come by are afraid to spend money, because of the crash in the economy and the sudden loss of jobs. This not only affects me but the 30 vendors in my store that bring in their treasures to sell.
“I have reduced our hours because of the lack of customers, but I refuse to close the doors. When I found out about the Mainstreet Preservation Grant, I was so excited. I have spent so many hours on different loan programs, only to be turned down constantly. Your grant has not only helped to save me, but all of my vendors that rely on me to keep going. You have made it possible for me to keep the doors open and keep my business alive during these tough times. I couldn’t have done it with-out your help.
“My family, vendors, and myself can’t thank you enough!! You have literally saved us.”
Learn more about Junk in the Trunk at: facebook.com/funkyjunkinthetrunk.
The Mainstreet Preservation Grant, provided by the Salt Lake Chamber’s Utah Job Opportunities Foundation, is made possible thanks to a $500,000 donation from WCF Insurance. The grant funds are used to support rural and/or minority small businesses in Utah that need immediate assistance due to the COVID-19 and before federal stimulus funding is accessed. These grant funds are intended to help businesses in the short-term. To donate or learn more about the Mainstreet Preservation Grant, visit slchamber.com/mainstreet-preservation-grant.
