Ideas to Support Local Businesses and Keep Your Community Strong
Pandemic or not, choosing to shop small makes a difference; but during times like these the difference is even greater. For many locally-owned businesses, consumers choosing to shop small may be the difference between continuing to serve our communities post-pandemic or closing its doors for good. Local businesses are essential for our economy; they provide goods and services along with employment opportunities and a sense of community. These small businesses have been there for us, now it is our turn to be there for them. Here are some tips to support your small and locally-owned businesses:
Continue to order from your favorite restaurants. If your current financial situation allows and your favorite local establishments are offering take-out orders, consider making at least one night per week a “take-out” night. Doing this is not only fun for you and the family, but it adds variety into your meal planning while also supporting the restaurants you love.
Look for local businesses offering delivery. We all know the big box retailers are offering drive-up service and delivery, but there are also some small businesses that have shifted to offering this service as well. Before placing an order, check your local stores first and try to support them as much as you can.
Purchase gift cards now for use later. Even if you can’t go in for a haircut or get your nails done, you can still support your favorite service providers by buying gift certificates to use once restrictions are lifted.These gift card purchases can add up and help keep money coming in while the doors are closed.
Tip service workers a little extra. If you ARE doing takeout or picking up supplies through online shopping, consider tipping the person putting together your order a little extra. Make sure they know how much you appreciate them being there for you.
Make your regular payments. If you are still employed and can afford it, consider continuing to pay the people in your life who used to provide services for you that are not able to do so now. Think about cleaning helpers, nannies, personal trainers, etc. They need us now just as we need them when circumstances allow.
Move your activities online. Check with your local sites to see if they are providing any online services or classes during this time. Many children’s classes and gyms have converted their offerings to virtual sessions so that you can still get the experiences from your home.
Be an ambassador. If you are supporting local businesses, give them a shout out on social media. Tagging a restaurant in a post could lead someone else to order or buy a gift card. Your support online is free, but it could be financially beneficial to a business.
Cambria Mortgage is proud to be a local business built to support our community. We are here for you now and always. Call us today at 952-942-0110 to see how we can help you on your journey through home-ownership.