Ways to Support Local Businesses During Temporary Shutdowns

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The combination of businesses being shut down and people staying at home has caused many local businesses to suffer. The government is doing what it can in terms of financial relief and other initiatives, but that can only go so far and for so long. Ultimately, it’s going to be up to us, the local communities and customers, to support these businesses.

Local business is essential for our economy. They bring growth and innovation to our communities. They provide employment, create entrepreneurship opportunities, and support the local economies, communities and neighborhoods.

They also care about their community. They know their customers by name; they are our neighbors and friends. They are what make our towns special and unique. Here are 15 ways you can support your favorite local businesses today. 

1. While many restaurants are offering delivery and pickup, many other businesses are as well. Your local toy store, flower shop, bookstore or clothing boutique may not have their usual storefront, but many are providing delivery or curbside pickup.

2. Buy gift cards or credit for later from your favorite restaurants, stores, hair salons, spas, childcare providers and hardware stores.

3. Share local restaurant delivery menus on your social media pages.

4. Check with the businesses you frequently shop. They may have altered their services to fit the temporary “new normal.” For example, your local cleaners now may provide a disinfecting service, or maybe a toy store is now selling homeschool supplies.

5. If you still have steady income and the financial means to do it, continue to pay your cleaning people, hair stylist, nanny, etc. They need us, and we need them.

6. Check to see which of your services/providers are now being provided online. Therapists, tutoring, yoga, personal trainers, coaches, financial planners, lawyers, music classes for kids – all of these can be continued through videos or online conferencing.

7. Tip service workers extra.

8. Keep paying your memberships and subscriptions, even if they’ve been temporarily suspended.

9. If you or your child already paid for a class that was cancelled, instead of a refund, donate that lost money to the organization.

10.  Start a local business network where people can engage with local businesses remotely. Charlotte, NC created Support Local Or Else, where businesses can promote deals and services during this time.

11.  Are you a website designer, developer, or a social media expert? Offer your services to local businesses that don’t have an online presence to help them sell and promote online.

12.  If you learn of a unique promotion or idea from a local business, share it online.

13.  Share sanitizer and supplies with local businesses.

14.  Start an online contest / drawing for local business gift cards and services.

15.  Just give a donation. Cash is always appreciated.

In these uncertain times we can all do our part to help out our local businesses. Even if we aren’t able to do so financially, a “like” or share on social media can go a long way! Share in the comments which local businesses you’re supporting this week!

Article concept via Forbes

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Categories: Community Feature, Neighborhoods, Real Estate News

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