A Freeport woman is bringing awareness and support to Black-owned businesses across Long Island.

Alicia Ray was looking for a Black hairstylist a few years ago and couldn't easily find one so she decided to do something about it.

"I have a background in web design and so I coded this website probably in a couple of hours on my couch," Ray says. "It's been nonstop ever since."

Ray created a website called Black Owned Long Island to connected businesses with consumers and bring awareness to Black-owned businesses in the area.

The website started with a few restaurants, but it now includes more than 100 restaurants.

"We really have a great collection of Black-owned businesses in a number of different categories," Ray says. "Beauty, health, food and beverage and real estate financial services."

Ray says it's important to celebrate recognized and support Black businesses year-round.

She moved to Long Island 10 years ago and now calls it home and wants to make it better.

"I've always been a Long Island and so whatever I can do to add value to my community is always going to be my top priority," Ray says. "I'm happy this has been gift and it's been useful."

Rays says she wants to help make Long Island's future more diverse and inclusive.