A store that recently got an upgrade here in Kalamazoo over the past few years is now in danger of closing down. Elements, located next to Kzoo Swift on the corner of Westnedge and Forest in the Vine Neighborhood had a Grand Re-Opening back in 2020 and since that time, has seen some hardships. Now, a friend of the store owner has launched a fundraiser campaign to help boost funds needed to pay back rent.

According to the organizer, earlier this month, the owner DeeDee received a conditional eviction notice because she fell behind on store rent to ensure her employees remained supported. No one in the situation is at fault, it's just one of those tough and unfortunate situations many businesses have felt since the start of the pandemic. She managed to cut back on employees without a single layoff, but now she needs significant support from the communities she has served:

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Unfortunately, Elements is in danger of closing its doors. The owner, DeeDee Stille, took over ownership in March. Since then, she has struggled with a big downturn in business because of inflation and post-pandemic issues while a single mother raising and acting as sole support for three children with special needs. She handles all this while still serving as a volunteer for a food bank in Marceullus and looking for ways to integrate Elements into assisting a food bank in Kalamazoo.

The organizer has ensured that any donation will directly help to pay back rent and utilities, support local artists and local industry, and continue to provide a safe and welcoming space for spiritual and cultural minorities to explore their spirituality, free from judgment.

Check Out The New & Improved Elements Kzoo