The South Valley Businesssource Centers Helps Local Jewelry Store Obtain LA Regional Covid-19 Recovery Fund
Yandra Rivera is the proud owner of La Esmeralda jewelry store located in Panorama City’s Plaza Del Valle. Her shop is mostly known for selling the most precious Colombian gemstone, the Emerald.
“Our Emeralds are known as the natural stones of Colombia and considered the best in the whole world.”
La Esmeralda, established in 2016, offers original handcrafted designs for rings, earrings, pendants, necklaces and bracelets. It also offers silver and gold pieces, repair services, and a selection of fashion jewelry from Yandra’s native country.
Although Yandra’s clientele has grown since she opened her store in Plaza Del Valle in 2017, the pandemic and the Stay At Home Order has decreased foot traffic for her and slowed down her daily sales. Unable to pay her monthly lease, she began to research for information about any financial assistance, or loan options that could help her keep La Esmeralda open.
She was referred to the South Valley BusinessSource Center by a friend from the Pacoima WorkSource Center. She began working with Business Coach Jessica Acevedo, who helped her apply for the LA Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund. Jessica guided her through the application process, document submissions, and technical assistance to ensure Yandra completed every step successfully and received a $5,000 grant.
“The SouthValley BusinessSource Center helped me obtain a grant that allowed me to pay the past-due rent and utilities for my business location. I am now up to date thanks to Jessica, who guided me. I am very thankful because my business is still open. It is a difficult time but I am persevering.”
Yandra is currently being assisted by the South Valley BusinessSource Center with accessing additional funding to keep her business open. Jessica is helping her to slowly transition her business to online platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Etsy. Their goal is to build a strong brand for La Esmeralda, increase her sales, and hire an employee.
To adapt to the COVID-19 guidelines, Yandra enforces social distancing and requires a mask upon entering. She has hand sanitizer available for customers and disinfects her counters regularly to provide a safe shopping experience.
To view La Esmeralda’s latest jewelry selection, check out @laesmeralda721 on Instagram, or visit her physical store in Plaza del Valle:
8610 Van Nuys Blvd, Panorama City, CA 91402, Space #1204,
Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 AM to 6:30 PM, and Sundays, 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
