Pittsburgh-Area Widow Struggles To Keep Bar-Restaurant Afloat

PITTSBURGH, PA — The owner of a Pittsburgh-area tavern and restaurant is on her own after her husband's death and is trying to keep the business afloat in the wake of mounting financial difficulties.

Brenda Lee Hoye, the owner of Brenda's Bar & Grill in Belle Vernon, Westmoreland County, lost her husband, John Hoye, to brain cancer in 2019.

Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused the closure of many similar establishments.

"While navigating the personal loss of my husband, I also assumed the responsibility of operating the business independently," she said.

"Since then, I have worked diligently to keep the doors open, honor the foundation we built together, and continue serving the customers who have supported us throughout the years.

But rising operating costs, increased expenses and ongoing financial obligations have made it increasingly difficult to remain current on bills and invest in necessary improvements.

"I have pursued traditional financing options and applied for business loans in an effort to stabilize operations and move forward. Unfortunately, those applications have been denied, leaving me with limited options to address the financial challenges facing the business.

Hoye has started a GoFundMe page to raise money to help cover overdue business expenses, maintain essential operations, and complete updates and remodeling projects.

"This business represents years of hard work, perseverance, and the dream that John and I shared," she said.

"Continuing to operate Brenda Lee's Bar & Grill is my way of honoring his belief in me and the opportunity he helped create.

"My goal is not simply to keep the doors open, but to build a sustainable future for a business that has become an important part of our community."