Improving Quality of Life on the Lower East Side While Setting the Stage for Economic Growth Our programs, services and initivates are designed to support local merchants, therefore improving quality of life for residents throughout the district. We also partner with many locally based community organizations and institutions to increase exposure and drive foot traffic to both merchants and cultural/community facilities that act as anchor institutions for our neighborhood. In addition, we provide merchant support services, which include direct financial assistance that is made possible through a series of grant programs. Furthermore, we act as a liaison, providing general assistance and direct support with permitting and other matters relating to city agencies for the Lower East Side’s small business community.