Metro Business Center opens in Dover, giving back to the community

DOVER, Del. – A woman who once was homeless is now giving back to those who need it most. A new business center was opened in Dover today on Saturday, but we’re told they’re doing more than just business. “What makes me excited about this is just giving back because I know what it’s like to be a homeless young lady with children,” says La’reka Marshall.

Marshall is a survivor of domestic violence and was previously homeless. While her past has been nothing short of difficult, she says she didn’t let that stop her from pursuing her dreams. “When I was homeless, I always wanted to give back because people sewed into me so it was really important for me to give back to my community as well,” says Marshall.

Now years later, through hard work and partnerships, Marshall and her partner opened a metro business center; It’s a place to get your phone fixed, buy a charger, or ship out packages. However, Marshall wants her customers to know, that they’re helping with a bigger mission to support Dover’s most vulnerable community members. “If they need a shower, if they need to get fed, need to get fixed up, if they need to get back in the workforce, we’re here to help them. That’s what the business center is about,” adds Marshall.

A green light outside the metro business center serves as a beacon for anyone in need. When the light is green, it alerts the community that there’s food, clothing, and help at her partner William Craig’s church down the street. “If you’re getting to set the example of Christ, you have to get outside of those four walls, which means you have to be visible,” says Craig. He adds, “I can’t just be the pastor of the Dover Church of Christ, I also have to be accessible in the community.”

As the business is just getting started. Marshall and Craig are looking for more partnerships because they say the passion to give back conquers all else. “She is just an inspiration to me and she’s very positive, she really pushes me, she’s really the motivation behind all of this,” says Craig. Marshall adds, “Whenever you hit rock bottom in your life, you can overcome, you can pound the pavement and you can come back on top.”

The metro business center is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m to 6 p.m.

Address: 1534 South Governors Avenue, Dover, DE