A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Makeda’s Cookies as the Memphis bakery works to pay their employees, finance repairs and more since Young Dolph’s tragic shooting. As reported by REVOLT, the Black-owned business was forced to close their doors and board up their windows after the shooting as police continue their investigation.
So far, over $85,000 have been raised for Makeda’s; which will be used to pay their employees while they remain closed. According to the GoFundMe page, the funds will also be used to cover the costs of repairs, as the business was struck by stray bullets during the shooting.
Store owners Maurice and Pamela Hill also plan to use the funds to provide grief counseling for their employees who were traumatized after witnessing Dolph’s killing, who was “someone they considered family.” Upon reopening, the bakery will also hire security since it was targeted by another shooting the day after Dolph’s death.
“The Hill family never imagined a tragedy like this would rock Memphis, the music community and the world or that it would happen at the business they have spent decades building and sustaining,” the GoFundMe page reads. “They extend their heart felt prayers to Young Dolph’s family, especially his wife and children. They appreciate all of your collective prayers, encouragement, support and generosity as they navigate this complicated, sensitive and painful new chapter. They have hope that they will make it through this and that the legacy of Young Dolph will continue to inspire us to love life and give back.”
Makeda’s downtown location reopened for the first time since Dolph’s death on Monday (Nov. 22), WREG reports. Operations Manager Raven Winton told the outlet that the Airways shop, where Dolph was killed, will likely remain closed for the rest of the year.
“To know that we’re not going to see that face anymore is… I’m trying to hold back tears. I’m sorry,” she told WREG. As reported, Dolph was a frequent customer at Makeda’s and promoted the business on his social media just one week before his death.