Michael's Shoe Repair: Keep Carroll Gardens' Only Remaining Cobbler In Business

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Michael Davidov of Michael's Shoe Repair Shop

For more than 25 years, Michael Davidov has fixed Carroll Gardeners' leather shoes and handbags on Smith Street between President and Union Streets, first at number 309 Smith Street, and then at 319 after a move.

He almost closed his shop in 2012, when his rent more than doubled, but he expanded his business to include watch repairs and offered some related merchandise and continued serving the neighborhood.

The current Corona pandemic may, however mean a permanent closure without the community's help.

A Go Fund Me page has appeared online, which reads:

"Dear friends, customers and neighbors,

Because of the shut down of nearly all business in Carroll Gardens due to the COVID-19 virus our employees at Michaels are not able to work and provide for themselves and their Families. We are disheartened to have to temporarily close but we hope that with enough support from you our loyal clients we will get by and overcome.

We have been working in this neighborhood for nearly three decades, made it through 9/11, the 2008 financial crisis and insane rent increases but this one is hitting us by far the most.

Please consider supporting Michael and his employees.

We appreciate anything that you are willing to give. 100% of donations will go directly to our staff to help keep them afloat until we can get back to serving your repair needs.

With gratitude,
Michael's Shoe Repairing"

A later update from Michael's son Joseph states:

Dear Supporters, thank you so much for your help, I greatly appreciate you generosity.

The situation is dire as we have not received any governmental relief. Please consider sharing our pledge for help on social media (we are shoe repair men with very limited social media skills).

Again, thank you so much for your support!

Of course, many local residents have lost their jobs and are struggling to pay their rent themselves. But if you are in the lucky position of still being employed and live in Carroll Gardens, please consider donation.

PLEASE DONATE HERE

You can read more about this business here.
Michael's Shoe Repair: Despite Rising Rent, This Small Smith Street Business Staying Put