Maya McFadden Photo
Sen. Blumenthal Tuesday with the owners and staff of Pan Del Cielo 2.
The Mera family has kept their Pan Del Cielo 2 family bakery in Fair Haven afloat in the pandemic with some federal help — and is now looking for another infusion to keep the bread loaves rising.
Marth and Edwin Mera and their son Bryan told that story Tuesday to U.S. Sen Richard Blumenthal, who visited to highlight efforts to make sure the second round of federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgivable loans flow to Black and brown-owned small businesses more than in Round One.
Pan Del Cielo 2 received a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan during its first round. The business also got Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) funds, which were used to cover rent and payroll.
Bryan Mera shows the senator some of the specialties …
The money was crucial when the pandemic slowed business. “This is how we survive,” Bryan said.
Ecuadorian immigrants Martha and Edwin opened the business in 2007.
The bakery closed for a few months when the pandemic began, then reopened mid-summer with the plan to “keep pushing until the very end,” said Bryan.
… and the trademark loaf.
“This is more than about dollars. It’s about serving the community. A wonderful family putting their heart and soul into the American dream,” Blumenthal said.
Blumenthal encouraged the family to apply for the second round of PPP loans, which can be used for the fresh ingredients for the menu of Puerto Rican and Latin baked goods, the payroll, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
The Meras and Blumenthal address the media.
The shop’s fresh and sweet aroma attracted multiple Fair Haveners during the senator’s visit. They picked up the shop’s most popular sandwiches like the “Mi Cielo” and “Tripleta.”
Edwin said he hopes with the second round of money assistance the business can invest in cooking equipment. The business has a total of six employees.
The storefront at 523 Ferry St. is open Monday through Saturday 5:30 a.m to 7 p.m and Sunday 6:30 am to 6 p.m.
Blumenthal leaves with a tasty treat.
Before leaving, Blumenthal picked up a loaf the dense and sweet bread known as pan de aqua. The Meras also took him on a tour of the shop.
Bryan hopes to open his own business locally in the future.
“Failure is not an option for us” during the pandemic, Bryan said.
Sen. Blumenthal Discuss’s Assistance Programs for Businesses with Pan Del Cielo 2
Posted by New Haven Independent on Tuesday, February 16, 2021
Not lot of social distancing here. Perhaps, Blumenthal feels cameras emit virus killing rays, so he is safe when he is in front of one even when crowding together with others.