During the lockdown, it’s important that we support one another. That includes businesses. We’re all going through tough times, and so is the baker, the tailor, the mason, the carpenter, the accountant, and more. Without revenue, these businesses may shut down – some of them, forever.
Now is the time we have to be charitable and support the local businesses that support our communities. In the following paragraphs, you’ll find ways to support local businesses while maintaining social distancing and following the Governor’s Stay Home, Stay Safe order.
1. Shop Remotely
Local businesses have gone from brick-and-mortar sales to online and phone sales where they can. If you have the ability, and you want to support your favorite local business, we encourage you to visit their website to shop online or call the business with your order. Many businesses will now ship your items or provide you with your order during a curbside pickup.
2. Order Takeout
Takeout, a staple of American life, is playing a larger role in how we feed our families during this pandemic. Restaurants are allowing you to purchase their delicious eats over the phone or online. After the order is placed, you can have their food delivered to your home, or you can pick it up yourself.
3. Subscribe to a Class
Subscribe to online classes that you usually go to offline. Many places have put their services online as an option, such as fitness classes, yoga classes, creative writing classes, singing classes, and music classes.
4. Take a Virtual Tour
Tourist attractions have closed their doors, but some are allowing visitors to take a virtual tour of their establishments. The same can be said of other small businesses, too. Whether it’s a local winery or a decommissioned freighter, support them by taking a tour!
5. Engage on Social Media
Likes, shares, retweets, and comments help more than you think. Engage with your favorite businesses on social media while they are locked down, and you will be helping them grow their brand for when they open their doors again.
6. Donate and Volunteer
Donations, whether they be time or money, are critical during times like these. If a business or an organization needs help cleaning or providing a meal for the public, think about donating your time. If someone needs help paying the bills, consider donating money. A little bit of either can go a long way.
7. Buy a Gift Certificate
Your favorite store, restaurant, or attraction might not be open now, but life will eventually go back to normal. Buying a gift certificate will help support them now in their time of need, and you can redeem it when life resumes. If you have the funds, we highly encourage you to support local businesses in this way.
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Thank you for reading. If you are having difficulties navigating these troubled times, reach out to Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! We offer services regarding resume building, application assistance, interview skill-building, and more.