SAN DIEGO – Today, the San Diego Padres announced plans to partner with the Central San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce (CSDBCC) in support of their Black Business Relief Grant Fund. The relief fund, created to assist Black-owned local small businesses reopen after the COVID-19 pandemic forced their closure, aims to raise $1 million over the next two months. The Padres Foundation has pledged to donate $19,000 to the relief fund in honor and memory of Mr. Padre, Tony Gwynn.

“The Padres and our ownership are committed to bringing positive change to the San Diego community through helping to eliminate racism and social injustice,” said Erik Greupner, President of Business Operations for the Padres. “As we continue to seek opportunities to support and stand with our Black community, partnering with the Central San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce to help get small business owners back on their feet is a tangible step towards the change that we need. The number 19 is special in San Diego and the opportunity to honor Tony’s legacy through this donation makes it even more meaningful to the Padres.”

The relief fund program provides grants to small businesses ranging from $250 to $2,000 while ensuring that these businesses are properly equipped with the resources and technical assistance needed to be able to begin the recovery, reopening and rebuilding phases.

“Our community thrives when we come together to support one another,” said Donna DeBerry, President & CEO of the Central San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce. “We are grateful for the Padres’ commitment to putting dollars behind their support of the Black San Diego community, and are proud to call them our home team.”

The Padres invite fans and other San Diego based or focused businesses to join them in financially supporting this cause by visiting here. Padres Partners U.S. Bank, Sony, Callaway Golf Foundation, AleSmith Brewing Company, Cutwater Spirits and 97.3 The Fan, the Padres Radio Network, have also pledged their financial support to the relief fund.

Businesses interested in applying for a grant are able to do so by requesting an application through the chamber’s website at www.sdblackchamber.org.