ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Some people are taking an idea and using it to help local small businesses. It's called a cash mob, similar to a dance mob, only participants aren't breaking out a boom box, but $20 bills. The group spends money at small businesses. Residents spent their first morning at Pasta Cucina in downtown Rockford.

Joe D'Astice, Co-Owner, Pasta Cucina, says, "It really does help support a small business. It helps the bottom line tremendously, and it brings in other sales that it may not otherwise have had."

Don Vidican, Cash Mob, says, "I think we've seen nationally in Ohio and other places where this has been very effective towns have been able to get behind some place and really make a go of it. So, when I heard that this was happening today, I thought this was a good way, that in some small way that we can support some of our local businesses."

Cash mob will feature a new business every month. The next event will be held March 3rd at Culture Shock on Charles Street.