How To Support Local During COVID-19

In times like these, it is easy to feel a bit helpless. How can we help the small businesses that we love if we cannot get out to their storefronts? Here are a few ways that you can make a big impact. Any helping hand that you can give will be deeply appreciated and will give hope to the owners and workers who are struggling right now. 

Shop local! When looking to grab takeout or delivery, consider dining at your local restaurants first. The smaller, independent places are the ones who need your support the most! Also, make sure to tip EXTRA! These tips generally are going straight to the laid-off employees. 

Look for ways to help local charities with donations. The Inter-Faith Food Shuttle is always looking for donations of non-perishable items. You can also donate to the North Carolina Restaurant Relief Fund to help hospitality make it through now that so many do not have jobs right now. Also, if you have some fabric and a steady hand, consider using those skills to sew face masks to donate to those in need. 

Use social media to help support small businesses! Your friends value your opinions. Use social media to post about the small businesses that you love. This is always important to do, but especially now. If you have a favorite local shop or product, post about it! Also be sure to like, follow, and comment on their social media. This costs nothing and helps spread the word about those who you support. 

The internet is your friend! Many places still allow you to buy products online. You can also purchase gift cards. This is an easy way to give them some cash right away that you can then use later on when they get back on their feet. It is a win-win! They also make great gifts for friends and family. 

Leave a positive review! Google, Yelp, and Facebook all allow you to leave reviews on a business. It might seem like a small thing, but leaving a positive review for a business means a lot!