Buy Black NB is a New Bedford-based community service that gives rise to Black-owned businesses across the region.

Buy Black NB is made up by hundreds of hometown, independently-owned small businesses that feature everything from locally-made goods, opportunities and services celebrating SouthCoast Black culture, according to new business owner Anthony DeBarros.

Observing the month of May as a time of Buy Black NB awareness, it's also well-timed for a pair of recognized entrepreneurs to trumpet the opening of their new business, Xpress Laundry.

It's a new laundry center located at 330 Hathaway Boulevard on the corner of Durfee Street, across from Hetland Skating Rink.

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Local Cape Verdean go-getters Tony DeBarros and Ivan Brito had been thinking about opening a new business together.

"This opportunity came along and we seriously looked into it," DeBarros said.

"You'd drive by before now, and the place looked terrible," Brito said. "The neighborhood people called it a 'zombie-mat,' not a laundromat."

Xpress Laundry is a new Black-owned business with a mission statement.

"To improve and truly become a part of the neighborhood, and get to know your neighbors," DeBarros said. "It's all about people. I'm a people-centric person. It's what drives and motivates me. We'll be on-site at all times, along with a helpful service attendant, to help assure everyone's needs are met."

Both business owners spoke about the importance of supporting the region's economy by supporting Black-owned businesses, to help close the gaps.

"Xpress Laundry is going to strengthen our neighborhood by both, fostering job creation, while celebrating the Black culture," DeBarros said.

Now open for business with new washers and dryers, soon, Xpress Laundry Center will be offering pick up and delivery.

For more information, go to XPressLaundryNB.com or call (508) 313-9901.

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