A boost to the economy
Story by Cpl. Chadwick debree and Cpl. Stephen McGinnis
Senior
leaders of the company met with the businessmen, a carpenter, a
pharmacist, a car painter and a mechanic, July 7 at Gnather Iraqi
Police Station and handed them each a micro-grant to help jump start
their businesses. The grants were available as part of the Micro-grant
Program, started by RCT-1 in an effort to improve the economy in its
area of operations by supporting small business owners.
Approximately $10,000 was distributed among the four businessmen, who
were chosen based on an assessment by Marines and IPs while on patrols.
“We
had (business owners) fill out questionnaires,” said 1st Lt. Aaron
Brusch, Executive Officer, Company F, 2nd Bn., 3rd Marines. “Out of the
50-plus questionnaires we received back, (leaders in) our company
prioritized which of them seemed most likely to benefit from the
grants.”
The
store owners who applied for the grants were prioritized based on the
type of service they provided, how much the grant could help each
individual improve their business and how their improved business could
contribute to the overall economy.
Each
recipient was excited to receive the funds. All said they would either
hire more workers or buy supplies they previously could not afford.
“I can’t explain how happy and grateful I am to the Marines for helping
me and my business,” said Wassan Ahmed Ali. “This will greatly help me,
and I appreciate the Marines for everything that they have done to help
me and other Iraqis.”
“All have either hired new workers, bought more supplies or expanded and improved their stores,” said Brusch.
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