10 unique gift ideas if you want to support Black-owned local businesses around Toronto

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There’s a silver lining to spending money during the holidays — an obligation to buy a gift is an opportunity to support your community. Black-owned small businesses were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, as was Scarborough. Spend with purpose this season with these gifts from Black-owned small businesses in and around Toronto’s east end; several are also founded by U of T Scarborough alum. This list barely scratches the surface of the show-stopping products and businesses around Scarborough. Check out our gift guide for more local businesses, and our gift guide for local Indigenous-owned businesses — the perfect gifts are closer than you think. This is an editorial piece and does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the University of Toronto Scarborough. 1. A Scarborough-themed candle There’s no such thing as dark comedy when your candle’s telling the jokes. These hand-poured candles feature cheeky one-liners instead of the usual scent descriptions (but you get to pick the real scent). Get it for $25 from Real Talk Candles 2. An organic hand and body butter View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natural Organic Matters | NORM (@naturalorganicmatters) ‘Tis the season of dry skin, but this chemical-free almond balm locks in moisture for 24 hours. It comes in a stylish reusable tub and a portion of all proceeds go toward planting trees in Toronto — the company, founded by Chevon Riley (UTSC BSc 2020), has already funded the planting of 295 trees. Get it for $19.99 from NORM 3. A doll that supports Black representation in children’s products