Local shoppers taking advantage of rewards program

By Rosanne Fohn

Anvil Herald Reporter

Area residents are taking advantage of the Open Rewards Program, which provides 5% cash back on purchases from more than 65 Hondo businesses.

Some residents have already received the maximum of $150 in rewards, said Sean Patty, executive director of the Hondo Economic Development Corporation, which is sponsoring the program.

Patty gave an update at the EDC’s monthly meeting on Nov. 21, noting that $3,008.19 has been distributed to shoppers so far, providing a total economic impact of $56,517. 

The EDC is sponsoring the program by providing $7,000 for the cash-back rewards to boost shopping at local businesses. The program began in late October and will run through February. Nearly $4,500 is still available in rewards.

It’s easy to sign up:

• Download the Open Rewards app.

• Create an account.

• Shop at local businesses as you normally do.

• Upload your receipts or link your credit card to the app.

• Earn rewards.

• Visit another business, make a purchase and then redeem your rewards.

Patty said that the EDC board will review the program in February to decide whether to continue it throughout 2025 or to offer it only during certain times, such as to boost local shopping during the holidays.