UC LOVES SMALL BIZ

Running from November 29th through December 24th, the campaign encourages residents and visitors to shop, dine, and support local businesses throughout the holiday season.

“Small businesses are the backbone of every great community, and Union County is no exception,” said Commissioner Chair Lourdes M. Leon. “When you shop locally, you are supporting your neighbors, strengthening our downtowns, and helping our business districts thrive. This campaign showcases the incredible diversity and talent of our local entrepreneurs, and we’re proud to highlight the people who make Union County such a vibrant place to live.”

The UC Loves Small Biz website provides residents and visitors with direct links to local downtown districts, chambers of commerce, and municipal business directories, making it easy to explore businesses. The site also features a dedicated section for local events, promotions, and holiday specials, serving as a digital bulletin board where businesses can share updates throughout the season using the hashtag #UCLOVESSMALLBIZ.

From November 29th through December 24th, Union County’s social media platforms will highlight small businesses across all 21 municipalities through photos, videos, and featured posts. Businesses, residents, and visitors are encouraged to participate by sharing their own experiences using the hashtag #UCLOVESSMALLBIZ.

In addition to supporting local businesses, the County is once again hosting the Annual Holiday Toy Drive through December 24th, collecting new, unwrapped toys to help bring joy to families in need during the holiday season.

To view the County’s toy donation wish list, visit ucnj.org/toy-drive-list/.

As part of this effort, local businesses are invited to serve as Toy Drive drop-off locations by hosting an official donation box. Interested businesses may contact Jeff Brooks at 908-659-7412 or jeffrey.brooks@ucnj.org for more information.

“This time of year is about community—supporting our small businesses while also supporting our families,” added Chairwoman Leon. “Every local purchase and every donated toy is a reminder that no family is alone. When we give back, we make the holidays a little warmer and a little brighter for everyone. That’s what Union County is all about.”

For more information, please contact Jeff Brooks, Office of Business Development, at 908-659-7412 or by email at Jeffrey.brooks@ucnj.org.