During the St. Petersburg City Council meeting on June 12, 2025, discussions centered around the significant contributions of local initiatives aimed at supporting small businesses and addressing community needs. The highlight of the meeting was the presentation by Renee Edwards, founder of Saturday Shops, who detailed the impact of her organization on local entrepreneurs and the broader community.

Edwards shared that Saturday Shops began as a platform for small business owners to sell their products, providing essential support to those who previously lacked opportunities. Over the past four years, the initiative has hosted 114 markets, generating over $1.14 million in revenue for small businesses. Edwards emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship education, noting that their interactive vendor academy has graduated over 300 individuals, equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in retail.

In addition to economic support, Saturday Shops has made significant contributions to community welfare. Edwards reported that the organization has distributed more than 5,500 hot meals and 2,000 turkeys to families in need, along with conducting the largest annual backpack giveaway in Pinellas County, providing 2,500 backpacks and 1,000 uniforms to local students.

Council members praised Edwards for her dedication and the tangible benefits her initiatives have brought to the community. They highlighted the importance of supporting minority-owned businesses and the role of Saturday Shops in fostering economic growth and resilience in St. Petersburg.

The meeting also touched on the Hidden Voices project, which focuses on providing resources and support to returning citizens and those affected by gun violence. Esther Saini, director of programs for PERC, outlined the program's evolution into a comprehensive support system that addresses trauma and promotes healing. The initiative has reached over 3,000 individuals, offering case management and wraparound services to help them reintegrate into society.

Council members expressed their commitment to continuing support for these programs, recognizing the critical need for resources that empower vulnerable populations. The discussions underscored a collective effort to enhance community safety and well-being through collaboration and targeted initiatives.

As St. Petersburg continues to grow, the council's focus on supporting small businesses and addressing social challenges reflects a proactive approach to fostering a thriving and inclusive community. The anticipated next steps include further partnerships and expansions of existing programs to meet the evolving needs of residents.