As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, it’s critical to stay updated with the latest information. I encourage everyone to refer to local health departments, the Centers for Disease Control, and the World Health Organization for the most current guidance.
My husband, Alex, has been part of his family’s eatery since he was just a little boy. At the tender age of five, he would climb onto a stool to wash dishes, pocketing $5 for every hour spent scrubbing away. Their family-owned diner, “Sam’s Place,” has been a beloved fixture in our small town for over a century, famous for its mouthwatering breaded pork tenderloin. Nestled in the heart of our downtown, it shares the space with more than 20 other charming local businesses, including pubs, candy shops, and even a dance studio, all contributing to the vibrant community spirit.
During the festive season, our downtown transforms into a winter wonderland, adorned with enormous candy canes, sparkling Christmas lights, and beautifully decorated trees that create a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie. While some may see us as “too small-town,” to me, it’s simply home. However, my concern for our hometown has never been more pressing.
Typically, Saturdays draw large crowds to not only Alex’s family restaurants (there are three in total) but also to all the small businesses in our town. Yet, due to the pandemic, our once-bustling streets have turned eerily quiet, save for the parking lots of big-box stores like Walmart and Kroger, filled to the brim with anxious shoppers.
Schools are closing, and families are scrambling for essential supplies like toilet paper and hand sanitizer. While panic over the virus isn’t universal, the sudden scarcity of everyday items has left many feeling vulnerable. People who wouldn’t typically hoard are now stockpiling, fearing that the shelves will stay empty in the coming days. As larger corporations cash in on the panic, small businesses are left grappling with dwindling customer flow and uncertain futures.
With strict guidelines against mass gatherings, many are opting to stay home and cook rather than dine out. Recently, states like Ohio and Illinois mandated the closure of restaurants and bars, leaving only takeout and delivery options available. Trips for spring break are being canceled, and with that, many are halting their plans to board pets, redirecting funds to essentials instead of local boutiques or home improvement projects. Arts events are postponed, leaving artists without income.
In these challenging times, it’s vital that we support one another and rally behind our local businesses. Though they may be small, they are the backbone of our community—creating jobs and enhancing property values. When you spend locally, you’re not just supporting a business; you’re investing in your neighbors and your community’s future.
So, as we navigate through these closures, consider how you can lend a hand to the small businesses around you. Can you order takeout from a family diner instead of cooking? Maybe you can forgo that vacation and use some of those funds to buy gift cards for future use. While it might require a little extra effort or spending, the impact of supporting local businesses is immeasurable.
Big corporations aren’t the ones sponsoring your child’s sports team or providing meals to kids in need during this time off school. But your local shops are stepping up to do just that. They are committed to giving back to the community that supports them. Let’s remember that during these tough times, it’s essential to think of the collective good.
If you’re interested in more insights about family and community support, check out our other post here. For those seeking information on pregnancy and home insemination, this resource is incredibly helpful. And if you’re ready to explore the options available for insemination, Make a Mom provides excellent kits and guidance.
In summary, during these uncertain times, let’s prioritize supporting our local businesses, which are essential for the community’s spirit and economy.
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