The order to close nonessential businesses in Pennsylvania has left many of us asking how we can best support small businesses during this crisis. If you can financially do so, please consider going out of your way to support locally-owned Erie businesses and organizations right now. Here are seven ideas on how to do that:
1. Order takeout
Bars and restaurants have been ordered closed, but many are finding ways to offer takeout. Some are even offering delivery services for the first time. Call your favorite local restaurants or visit their Facebook pages to find out what alternatives they're offering customers. A new Facebook group is tracking restaurants offering delivery and takeout.
2. Change your habits
You might only grocery shop at Wegmans or Wal-Mart typically. But those large businesses have more resources to help employees and stay in business throughout this crisis. Instead think about stopping at places like locally-owned Gordon's Meat Market and Larry's Central Market, businesses that are allowed to stay open.
3. Plan ahead
Have a birthday party to plan for later this year? Reserve a location or entertainer now. That support -- and a down payment! -- will give small business owners a boost during a scary time for them.
4. Make summer camp plans
It might be hard to picture right now given the situation, but the school year ends in less than three months. Now is the time to plan for summer for your kids. Let your kids peruse our summer camp guide and pick out a few summer camps to attend that look fun to them. Then reserve those spots for camps now. Businesses and organizations will appreciate that support!
5. Buy gift certificates
Almost any business will allow you to buy a gift certificate for later use. Most have online options. That will give them the cash they can use now to pay bills and employees, and you can look forward to spending it when restrictions have lifted. Gift certificates aren't just for restaurants -- think about businesses ranging from Coventina Day Spa to Glass Growers Gallery. See more information about them and other local mom-owned businesses you can support during the shutdown.
6. Don't ask for your money back
Extracurriculars canceled? Gyms closed? Daycare shuttered? Consider asking for makeup classes or time rather than asking for your money back.
7. Donate to Second Harvest Food Bank
While many secondhand stores are not accepting donations or consignment currently because of the coronavirus, places like Second Harvest Food Bank are helping families suffering financially during this crisis -- like laid off restaurant workers, retail employees and others. They are not taking food donations, but you can make cash donations online. Several local school districts have also made arrangements to offer kids meals during time off school. Get details here.
