LARGO, Fla.— While funds are being given for all kinds of businesses affected by the coronavirus closures, Christian Retail Association (CRA) is supporting independent Christian bookstores who carry products that are vital in these challenging times.
“The products our stores have to offer are just what people need in times like this. They bring hope and encouragement, reminding us we are not alone, because God promises He will never leave us or forsake us,” said Sue Brewer, Chief Operations Officer of the Munce Group, a working partner of CRA.
“While we know that the government’s $2.2 trillion bailout will help our independent Christian bookstores, they are going to need more help than that,” Brewer adds. “Our goal of $10 million will give 200 independent Christian bookstores $50K each to pay their suppliers, their rent and for other essentials needed to re-open or keep their stores open to spread the gospel to their communities.”
Bob Munce, president of CRA, said that most people will give to a good cause, but only Christians will give to spread the gospel. In a grassroots approach, CRA is sending information about the giving page to all vendor partners, asking them to share this initiative on their personal social media sites in order to reach outside the industry.
Donations can be given by visiting www.christianretailassociation.org and clicking on “Give Now!” Since CRA is a non-profit organization, all donations are tax deductible. Net proceeds will be collected by May 30, 2020 and distributed to approximately 200 CRA member stores. Stores who joined CRA in 2019 will have their annual membership extended through July to benefit from this collection.
Christian Retail Association is a non-profit ministry founded by Munce Group President Bob Munce in an ongoing effort to better serve independent Christian retailers. The Munce Group was founded in October 1991 and currently serves nearly 200 member retailers across the US. The mission of the Munce Group is to provide member retailers with the highest quality Christian materials and services to equip independent Christian retailers for the work of their ministry and business. For more information, visit www.christianretailassociation.org or call 800-868-4388.
Contact: Andrea Stock, andrea.stock@munce.com
