Jennifer Falbo isn’t going to let her restaurant go down without a fight.

Falbo, owner of Pablo’s Mexican Restaurant, said the business is in dire need of funds.

The popular Crystal Lake restaurant, 230 W. Virginia St., Suite 300, could close unless thousands of dollars are raised to help support it.

“I want to keep this going forever,” Falbo said.

Her husband hopes to raise $200,000 with a GoFundMe campaign. She also plans to host fundraisers at the restaurant.

So far, more than $1,500 has been raised.

“I’d rather have people come in and buy my products. I work for my money,” Falbo said, adding that food prices have risen and she needs new coolers. “I’m a hardworking woman.”

Since news of her situation was made public, some customers have returned to enjoy her award-winning salsa and margaritas.

Falbo has been a part of the restaurant for about 20 years – first as a server and bartender, then general manager and now owner. She bought the business from Paul Morin in 2014 when he decided to rejoin his family in Texas.

Falbo also is hoping to dispel rumors that she owns, operates and profits from the newly opened Pablo’s Tex-Mex & Cantina, 1150 Spring Hill Ring Road, West Dundee. She said her daughter, Sarah Sobel, owns it.

“She wanted to open her own restaurant,” Falbo said.

Throughout the years, Falbo has donated her time and resources to local nonprofits, including Helping Paws Animal Shelter, Relay for Life and Toys for Tots. She also serves free Christmas Day meals.

“Me and my husband are cooking a Christmas dinner free of charge for veterans, homeless veterans, people in need, anybody,” Falbo said. “I’m not here to make a million dollars. I’m here for my community and staff.”