Social media savvy shoppers who want to help Windsor's struggling economy have organized a cash mob.

A cash mob is similar to a flash mob, a large group of people who gather at a public location to perform a pre-defined action.

The time and business have yet to be announced, but a group of people plan to spend some money en masse at a local business on March 24, which is regarded as International Cash Mob Day.

On March 23, organizers Kelly Ouellette and Pat Ryan will announce on the cash mob's Facebook page the time and place to meet. A few days before that, they'll notify the store or stores that will be shopped at. They don't want the stores to be understaffed.

Ouellette, a former small business owner, found the idea online. So, she asked on Facebook who would be interested in joining one in Windsor, where the unemployment rate is Canada's highest at 10.7 per cent.

"My real goal is to get people to think differently about the value small local stores in their community. Once they're gone, it's too late," Ouellette said.

Everyone is committed to spending $20.

Ryan runs a small business out of his home, so he knows how hard but vital it is to get people to hear about his business.

"I thought it was a wonderful idea to give back to the community and help struggling small businesses," Ryan said. "Everyone can spend $20."

Ryan said participants don't have to spend their money on themselves if they choose a store someone may not like. They can buy gifts for friends or family, he said.

Stores have to be locally owned. Big box stores and chains won't be shopped at.

Neither of the organizers will make money from the upcoming cash mob and ask whichever business is chosen in advance of the shopping onslaught to not have sales the day shoppers arrive.

Tony Blak of Blak's Bakery said it's not just start-ups that need to find fresh ways to keep customers coming in. Even his 93-year-old bakery is into social media. People can receive a free cookie if you like its Facebook page.

Blak said he loves the idea of supporting local businesses. He said it's especially good for Windsor because approx 40 per cent of costs at local businesses are staff. So every new dollar that comes in, a good chunk goes to local jobs.

Ryan said there are 32 North American cities where cash mobs occur.