Here's how a fundraiser may be the last hope for Lopez Bakery in Milwaukee's South Side

Lopez Bakery and Restaurant, a beloved institution in Milwaukee's south side for 50 years, announced on social media that it would be closing.

A nearby business is trying to keep that from happening.

The social media post shared on the bakery's Facebook account proclaimed the family-owned business has experienced a series of "unforeseen circumstances," including the death of a loved one and broken equipment.

Cindy and Jorge Lopez own the beloved institution. Jorge Lopez's parents Jose and Amparo Lopez opened the bakery in 1973 shortly after immigrating from Mexico.

"We are one of the first Hispanic businesses to establish themselves in the city and provided our services throughout the Hispanic community for the last 50," Jorge Lopez said. "As a staple in our community, we've work with schools and the police department.

Steve Ozbolt, the co-owner and chef at Emerald City Catering, heard the news and knew he had to help. He organized a "Pay as You May" brunch pop-up fundraiser for Feb. 19 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Ozbolt grew up in Milwaukee's south side and remembers going to the bakery as a kid.

"They have been around for 50 years," he said. "We want to make sure that this isn't how it ended for them."

Ozbolt, along with the hundreds of people who have responded to the fundraiser, hope to see the business get back on their feet quickly.

"It has been a brutal beginning of the year for them," he said.

The "Pay as You May" brunch pop-up will be held at Emerald City Catering at 3555 S. 13th St. Sunday Feb 19.

Those who can not make it to the event but still wish to support Lopez Bakery can send money via Venmo @Lopezbakerymke.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Fundraiser aims to save Lopez Bakery in Milwaukee's South Side