Our latest Meet a Mom is the incredible Kemesha Salmon of New Rochelle. Kemesha is the owner of the beloved TP Toys, a specialty toy store focused on providing educational toys, with an emphasis on toys geared toward children with special needs. A committed advocate of fundraising, she is also the founder of Kemesha’s Kommunity, an organization dedicated to supporting local families in need. Kemesha has become a fixture of hope and generosity in the New Rochelle Community. She has a long list of accolades ranging from The Women of Excellence Philanthropy Award from the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce to 40 under 40 Rising Star Award from the Business Council of Westchester. When you talk to Kemesha you can feel her energy and passion for her business and her fundraising. I was so inspired when I spoke with Kemesha and I think you will be too. Learn more about her and her business, and how you can help contribute and support our neighbors in need through Kemesha’s Kommunity.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now?
I’m originally from Jamaica, I moved to the US when I was 8. I’ve been a New Rochelle resident since the age of 16.
How did you decide to settle in the Sound Shore?
My family moved to New Rochelle when I was 16. I decided to raise my family here because of the diversity in New Rochelle.
How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
We have 2 children Tristan 11 (boy) + Peyton 10 (girl)
What do you love about living in the Sound Shore?
I love the community Involvement and the diversity of my city.
What are your go-to restaurants and shops in the Sound Shore?
My go to restaurants in New Rochelle are Beechmont Tavern (I’m obsessed with their wings) and Smoke and Spice Grill restaurant, the owner has been our family chef for over 12 years.
What’s your favorite way to spend time with your family?
We love to fundraise for different organizations together, cook together and have game nights.
How do you spend “me time”?
My “me time” is spent reading at 5am or ladies night with my friends.
Why did you decide to open TP Toys?
My son was diagnosed with the autism spectrum at 2 ½. Most of the toys used for his therapy were difficult to locate and I wanted to make it easier for other moms.
Has COVID-19 impacted your business?
Yes, Covid has caused our revenue to decline 60 percent. Thanks to my communities support we are still open.
Tell us more about Kemesha’s Kommunity. How did it start? How can local families support you?
Kemesha’s Kommunity was started to help local families in need. Being in the community, I saw the every day needs of struggling families trying to make ends meet. I wanted to create a platform where community members can donate to help other community members in need. Local families can support us buy donating to our charity at Kemeshaskommunity.org
How do you juggle motherhood, parenting and your professional life? Any tips for keeping it all together? Balance, you have to know when to stop and self-care. Giving back is very important to me, I dedicate a few days each week for my community and also for my family time. I keep it all together by acknowledging that I am only one person and I’m doing my best.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom? The best advice was “ love yourself first and all will fall into place.”
Shop TP Toys and learn more about Kemesha and Kemesha’s Kommunity.