Chicagoans Flock To Belmont Cragin Restaurants After ICE Fears Slowed Sales 'Truly Grateful'

Belmont Cragin restaurants, particularly Las Casitas, have experienced a resurgence in business after being featured in a local news story about their struggles with ICE-related fears. Co-owner Liz Herrera reported a drastic increase in customers, allowing the restaurant to recover from weeks of slow sales. The Hermosa Belmont Cragin Chamber of Commerce successfully raised $74,800 for local businesses facing potential closures, exceeding its $50,000 goal. These funds will provide micro-grants and resources aimed at stabilizing small businesses in the area. Herrera expressed gratitude for the community's support, though she remains cautious about the restaurant's long-term viability.

Community initiatives, including restaurant crawls, have also helped draw attention to local eateries. Increased ICE activity has created stress for immigrant families, but community solidarity offers hope to business owners. Efforts like Whistlemania train residents to safely document ICE actions, further uniting the community.