Melissa Voss | Editor
Over the past couple of months, whether voluntary of involuntary, many local businesses have closed their doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Local businesses are made up of family, friends, neighbours, and peers.
Throughout the course of the pandemic, many local businesses have been hit with a decrease in business. With over 3 million Americans filing for unemployment in the past three months, small businesses have taken the biggest hit since the small business market makes up over half of the U.S. workforce.
However, there are still way for the community to support local businesses and their employees through this time:
1) Craving Cubbys’ deals from Crooks or lunch specials from the GOAT from Hartford? Many restaurants are offering delivery/pick-up, even dine-in seating!
Although restaurants have become legally required to social distance, there is a promotion for supporting the restaurants that allow takeout. Many customers are able to make orders online or phone calls and have either in-store or curbside pick-up.
2) Purchase gift cards for future use, either tomorrow or two months from now
For many businesses that have to remain closed or are not open to the public, buy gift cards for future use. These also make great gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations!
3) Get your body moving with local online offers
For businesses such as gyms and yoga studios, online classes or live streams are being offered for their members and one-time customers. Personal trainers are also switching to online platforms to keep in contact with their clients.
4) Search for local solutions for at-home problems and projects
Need an oil change? Want some help with lawn care? Or just want help with a home-improvement project that you are tackling? Call up your local auto shop, carpenter or gardener to help you out.
Be aware of new adjustments businesses are taking to keep the community safe
Keep up to date with which local businesses are open. Many businesses and facilities are open for business and are currently taking the required precautions to promote social distancing and proper sanitation.