12 Creative Ways to Support Your Local Businesses Right Now
Ray Cogan
Even when we’re told to maintain social distance, we need each other more than ever.
As the news of the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues, it’s essential to follow public health guidance from experts such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and your local government to keep your distance and slow the spread. (Read more about how ERIE and our local agents are maintaining our commitment to serving you in our message on COVID-19.)
Beyond the health impacts, though, there’s also a community impact. Right now, things might feel lonely or uncertain – even scary. And that’s especially true for small business owners – in particular, those that have been instructed to close their doors.
From your favorite lunch spot to that funky art gallery, our local small businesses are a beloved part of what make our hometowns feel like home. We rely on them daily – and now, they need us. If you’ve got a little extra to spare in these uncertain times, here’s how you can help out your local small businesses.
How to Support Local Businesses During the Coronavirus
- Buy local whenever you can. When it comes time to stock up on pantry staples, think about supporting that mom-and-pop shop first. The American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA) has fascinating data about how locally owned businesses generate larger “ local economic multipliers. ” Your support might make a bigger impact than you think.
- Order takeout or delivery from your favorite local restaurants. Extra perk: No dishes.
- Buy gift cards or gift certificates. Many places accept contact-free payment online or over the phone. Stock up now and treat yourself to a night on the town when this all blows over. For places you rely on regularly – for example, your hair salon – buy an extra service or two now if you can, since you know for sure you’ll use it in the months ahead.
- Buy gifts for friends or family. Is it crazy to think about starting your holiday shopping in the spring? You’ll thank yourself later – and, hey, it’s something to pass the time! (Read our list of tips for safe online holiday shopping.)
- Leave a generous tip. With lower customer volume, servers and bartenders might be making less than usual. If you have it to spare, throw a few extra dollars their way. (And don’t forget to tip the delivery driver!)
- Buy merch or other gear. We get it – you can only order so much takeout, especially if you’re not getting your usual number of steps in. Think about buying a coffee mug, T-shirt or ball cap to show some local love. Buying merch can especially help touring musicians, who might have had to cancel shows in the interest of public health.
- Tune in to live streams. With bars, restaurants, and other gathering spaces closed, gig workers like musicians might be out of work. Show your support with a like and comment on your favorite local band’s livestream. (And if they have a digital tip jar, send a few dollars there just like you would at the corner bar.)
- Take an online class. Personal trainers, yoga instructors, and fitness pros might be out of work, too – and we all know it’s important to keep moving when you’re stuck at home. See who’s streaming and consider throwing them a digital tip as a thank-you. (Laundry piling up? Read our list of 7 must-know hacks to clean fitness gear.)
- Buy some cool art. Websites like Etsy make it easy to search by location and find artists in your community – and you might be going stir-crazy to freshen up your space, anyhow. Some local artists might be doing “draw-alongs” or other livestreams. Add them to the list of folks who would appreciate a digital tip, too. (Keeping the kiddos occupied with art projects of their own? Read our list of 5 stylish ways to display children’s artwork.)
- Leave a positive review. If you’re short on cash, boosting a local place’s reputation is worth its weight in gold. While you’re at home, type up a couple good comments for your favorite spots to leave on social media or search engines. (Get other ideas to pass the time in our list of 21 ways to beat cabin fever.)
- Check with your local chamber of commerce or small business association. Local groups might be planning events, discounts, or promotions unique to your area. Get connected and see what’s happening in your neighborhood.
- Pay it forward.
If you’re fortunate to have some steady cash flow right now, remember that others might not. Consider treating the next person in line behind you – or making a donation to a charity that helps the less fortunate in your community.
At ERIE, living local is what we’re all about. There’s a lot of ways to buy insurance these days – but for more than 95 years, we’ve been proud to work with local insurance agents who live and work in the communities you do. Talk to a local agent in your community or learn more about what makes ERIE different
The post 12 Creative Ways to Support Your Local Businesses Right Now appeared first on Lindquist Insurance.
At Lindquist Insurance, we’re here to help you with your car insurance now and in the future. If you're thinking about switching your car insurance and live in Frederick, Annapolis, or Washington, DC, now is the perfect time to reach out. At Lindquist Insurance, our friendly local agents make the process simple, fast, and tailored to you. We’ll compare top providers, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way.
Call Lindquist Insurance today at (301) 694-3008 or visit www.lindquisinsurance.com to request a free, no-obligation quote.
We serve the Frederick, MD, Annapolis, MD, and Washington, D.C. areas.
At Lindquist Insurance, we’ll work to find a policy that fits your needs and your budget — without sacrificing the coverage you need to drive confidently. If you're a first-time driver in Frederick, Annapolis, or anywhere around the Washington, DC, Beltway, the right car insurance is your first step toward confident driving. At Lindquist Insurance, we know the roads, the risks, and how to protect what matters most to you.
Let us help you navigate your options, answer your questions, and find a policy that fits you perfectly. Whether you're commuting to school, work, or just exploring Maryland’s scenic backroads, we’ve got your back. Call Lindquist Insurance today at (301) 694-3008 or visit www.lindquisinsurance.com to request a free, no-obligation quote today. Let’s make your first car insurance experience smooth, simple, and stress-free — the way it should be.
We serve the Frederick, MD; Annapolis, MD; and Washington, D.C. areas.
Let Lindquist Insurance help you lower your insurance costs while maintaining the protection you need. We understand the unique driving challenges in the DMV, and we’re here to help you find coverage that fits your lifestyle, no matter what your age. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you to the best car insurance policy for your needs.
We serve the Annapolis, MD, Fredrick, MD, and Washington, D.C. area.
Can you get car insurance in Frederick and surrounding areas with a poor driving record? Learn what you need to know about getting insurance with a less-than-perfect driving record.
Your insurance agent in Frederick plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your valuables and ensuring that your cherished possessions and loved ones are well-protected.
Our insurance agency located in Frederick can help couples safeguard their assets, protect their loved ones, and ensure financial stability. Contact Lindquist Insurance today!
Our insurance agent based in Frederick can help you achieve financial stability and peace of mind. Protect what you have, prepare for the unexpected, and build a plan for the future.
As an insurance agency in Frederick, we think January is a perfect time to review your policies. Make sure that you have the right insurance coverage for the year ahead.
Check with your insurance agent, in Frederick, about coverage for the holiday season. From theft to accidental damages, the holidays can bring surprises that aren’t always pleasant.
Share On: