Neighborhood businesses are the heart of communities across Philadelphia. To help stop the spread of COVID-19 coronavirus, business restrictions were enacted, and small businesses in the city have been severely impacted. Though their locations have closed, you can still safely support your neighborhood shops and restaurants during this difficult time. They need your support now more than ever.
Here’s what you can do right now to support local businesses:
Shop online
If you’re running low on your favorite product, try to reorder it online from a local shop instead of a big box store. Plenty of small businesses are offering products online. See if your favorite shop carries the product you need on its website. You’ll be practicing social distancing while supporting small businesses in your community.
Buy gift cards
If you can’t make purchases from your favorite local shops online, buy a gift card to use later when businesses reopen. The store will get the support it needs now, and you get to look forward to a shopping experience in the future. Purchase a gift card for a friend, family members, or yourself to spread your support to multiple businesses.
Consider donating gift cards to organizations that need resources. For example, buy an art store gift card for an art teacher at your local school.
Order food to go
Many restaurants across the city are offering delivery, curbside pick-up, and takeout options. Forget about cooking tonight and check in with your favorite neighborhood spot instead. You can also purchase a gift certificate to use when you’re hungry again later. Try to tip restaurant staff and delivery people generously.
Share your favorite businesses with your friends
These are financially stressful times for many of us. If you’re not able to purchase anything from your favorite shops right now, consider sharing their posts on social media or encourage your friends and family to support them if they can.
Small businesses in Philadelphia need your support more than ever. While Philadelphia follows the Stay-at- Home mandate, you can practice social distancing while still supporting your favorite shops.
