As the United States and the rest of the world are taking precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, local businesses are at risk. While staying inside and social distancing are necessary to keep us healthy and safe, this is already affecting the Rhode Island businesses that make our state so special.
While customers may not be visiting stores, gyms, studios, and restaurants, the bills are going to keep coming for these businesses. Federal and local governments are working on relief efforts but this may not be enough to help your favorite local businesses keep their doors open. These businesses and their employees need all the help they can get.
Here are a few things that you can do to help support RI businesses at a time when they desperately need it.
Buy a gift card
Purchasing a gift card is a great way to provide a business with the money it needs when it needs it the most. You can spend it later when things go back to normal.
Ask about alternatives
Don’t just assume that the businesses you love are closed or can’t provide you with the products and services you need. Contact them and find out if they are making small changes to stay in business. Maybe your favorite local craft store is offering deliveries, or maybe your favorite restaurant is still serving takeout.
Spread the word
If you see that a business is working hard to make adjustments and stay open, let others know! Whether it’s by sharing posts on social media or by texting your friends, the free publicity could go a long way for these businesses. Even sharing local restaurant take out menus could make a big difference.
Buy online, LOCALLY
If you’re looking to buy products while avoiding the crowd, don’t just buy straight from large companies like Amazon. Check to see if any local stores are offering online orders first.
Try not to cancel
If you have a membership, subscription, or pre-paid reservation, do your best not to cancel. Times are tough and we understand that this may not be an option for everyone. But, if you can afford it, try to continue paying for gym memberships or subscriptions – even if businesses can no longer provide services to you. These types of businesses depend on regular income to pay the bills and their employees.
Show some love
If you can’t continue to pay for subscriptions, leave positive reviews for the businesses you love on Google and Yelp. Unfortunately, some businesses will have to close temporarily but leaving positive reviews could help drive traffic to businesses once they open back up.
Support a local restaurant
This list from Eat Drink RI is a great resource with information on which RI restaurants are still open for take out.
At a time where a lot seems to be out of our control, there is so much we can do as a community to help our local businesses survive this pandemic. These RI businesses are working hard to stay afloat and now it’s time to do your part!
Excellent information !!