Wear Local expands location and mission

(ABC 6 News) – A small business that launched during the heart of the pandemic in Rochester is expanding not only in size – but in its mission.

Wear Local, an apparel and printing company was founded on the idea that half of the proceeds from every purchase goes back to support local businesses.

Owner Ryan Froh said he saw a need and developed this idea to help his fellow small business owners.

In its first year, Wear Local gave away 30 thousand dollars to restaurants struggling during the pandemic.

Now, in a new location on the northwest side of town, Froh says his mission will include supporting families in need.

“Our main goal is to make sure our kids have clothes to go to school with, jackets and so on and resources from some good nonprofits to help with that”>

Wear Local is also partnering with schools and classes to offer students interested in graphic design and retail business a chance to job shadow and internships so students can get hands-on experience.

A grand opening will take place Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 525 6th Ave NW.