IMPORTANT UPDATE: Chermé and I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has signed, shared, and even chipped in to help raise awareness of the shop's eviction. Unfortunately, it seems the landlord isn't going to reconsider. But when one door closes, another opens.

In part thanks to our beautifully supportive community and your collective efforts to raise awareness of this issue, there is now the possibility of Chermé and her beloved cats continuing their presence in our business landscape in a new and different way. As such, instead of continuing this petition, we ask that you consider donating to our fundraiser to help her through this transition.

You can click here to donate any amount. Thank you all so very much. ��We truly live in one of the most supportive, loving communities in the world!

Original Petition Message:

As an author and someone who deeply values art and handmade creations, I am personally affected by the plight of over 50 local artists, writers, and makers in Felton, California. These talented individuals are being forced to vacate the Felton Mercantile - a place that is more than just a shop. It is a community hub that houses their work and dreams, contributing significantly to the rich cultural fabric of our beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains.

While it has never been easy to make a living as a creative, the rise of AI has made it even more challenging for artists to earn income. Now, this eviction threatens their livelihood further. The Mercantile provides these creators with an essential platform and “home” where they can showcase their unique pieces and connect with their community and visitors who appreciate locally-made products.

That said, the Mercantile is more than a shop. It is a place where many people have found a sense of belonging, validation, and friendship. The Mercantile is a safe harbor and part of the vital heartbeat that runs through our town. Through hosting pop-ups and events such as immersive evenings exploring indigenous European holiday traditions, crafting workshops and more, the space has served our community in countless ways.

In the 4 years since opening, the Mercantile along with the wider San Lorenzo Valley have been through a pandemic, the worst wildfire in the area’s recorded history, floods, and landslides, along with the usual struggles of running a small business. Yet through it all, the Mercantile has supported local makers and artists and truly served our community by keeping money in our local economy.

Chermé, the shop owner, is a longtime Felton resident and maker herself. Her warm presence and uplifting smile have welcomed many and put Felton “on the map” for several visitors. The immersive evenings attracted attendees from as far as Hayward, Stanford, and Arizona, and were talked about on popular podcasts and by content creators.

We urge the landlord not only to reconsider this decision but also recognize how integral these artisans are for our community's cultural richness and economic vitality.

Please sign this petition if you believe in preserving spaces like the Felton Mercantile that foster creativity and support local economies.