Kankakee, Illinois – A new downtown map is spotlighting 17 Black-owned businesses across Kankakee’s central business district, aiming to drive local support and foot traffic during Black History Month.
According to Downtown Kankakee, the initiative highlights Black-owned salons, barbershops, retailers, wellness providers, and community organizations located primarily along Schuyler Avenue and surrounding streets. The map was released this month as part of a broader effort to recognize the role these businesses play in the city’s economic and cultural landscape.
Featured locations include Good Vibes Smoke Shop, Fade Master’s, NineO Six, The Venu’, C&L Fine Goods Boutique, Mason’s Novelties & Giftworks, Home Sweet Home, Sheer Perfection Hair Studio, Fresh Kut’s Barber Shop, Resilient Comfort Care, Essential Smoothies, Essentiality Collections, Urban Barber Shop, Luxe and Loaded Firearms Academy, Rosie Mae Home Care, Garden of Prayer Youth Center, and Growing Hands Hair Salon.
Downtown Kankakee said the businesses represent a wide range of services—from personal care and retail to home services and youth development—contributing to daily activity and long-term stability in the downtown corridor.
Organizers encouraged residents and visitors to shop locally, learn about each business, and continue supporting Black-owned enterprises beyond February. Information about each location is available through Downtown Kankakee’s website and social media platforms.
The initiative also aligns with ongoing downtown revitalization efforts focused on small business visibility, walkability, and economic inclusion in the city center.
For commuters, students, and downtown workers, the map provides a centralized guide to nearby services within walking distance of offices, restaurants, and public spaces.
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