Foley Main Street has launched a new "shop local" program to bring more money and attention to independent small businesses in Downtown Foley.

The community gift card called Downtown Dollars is a Mastercard gift card that will universally work at multiple local Downtown Foley businesses. This program is continual and will be around for a long time, according to a news release.

To start it off, Foley Main Street has invested $1,000 in a fall campaign. Beginning Oct. 13 when you purchase a gift card, there is a 25% discount until the fund runs out. The gift card program is here to stay year-round. There will be more offers and giveaways throughout the years.

"The Downtown Dollars Gift Card will give people the gift of choice. They can buy one gift card and it will work at a variety of locations, rather than having to pick and choose just one business. It's an easy way to support downtown businesses, and it allows businesses to gain new customers," Foley Main Street President Chad Watkins said.

Consumers can purchase a Downtown Dollars Gift Card by visiting www.foleymainstreet.com and clicking on the gift card link. They will see a listing of local businesses that accept the card, plus business contact information, a map with pin locations and an online order form.

"Events like cash mobs or Small Business Saturdays are great, but we wanted to add a way for our community to support our great small businesses year-round," said Darrelyn Dunmore, executive director.

The card is a great gift for family or friends for any occasion, or as employee recognition rewards that companies can give to employees (bulk orders available).

"Many local employers want to do something nice for their employees, but sometimes settle on giving national chain gift cards because there is nothing obvious available locally without having to pick winners and losers," Watkins said. "Now we have a great alternative."