In periods of instability, it is paramount that communities unite and reinforce one another in every possible way. Beyond the scope of government assistance, there are numerous methods to bolster the enterprises and associations that we hold dear, even from the confines of our homes.
Support Your Local Restaurants The majority of individuals are experiencing tough times, with local eateries facing some of the most severe challenges. As regional restrictions tighten, restaurants nationwide have had no choice but to shutter their physical premises. On a brighter note, a myriad of these establishments have swiftly adjusted to this abrupt business alteration, now offering pickup or home delivery services. Instead of resorting to a quick stop at your usual fast-food outlet, contemplate patronizing a local business. Numerous delivery apps, including Postmates and UberEats, provide cost-free delivery from local restaurants, ensuring safety through minimal contact.
Invest in Gift Cards Should ordering a full meal or embarking on an online shopping extravaganza not be viable at this juncture, ponder purchasing a gift card from a beloved local store. Despite many retailers temporarily closing, various platforms still present the opportunity to procure items for home delivery or buy e-gift cards. Every single dollar contributes to the vitality of your local businesses at this crucial time. Be imaginative with your spending!
Online Shopping from Local Merchants As previously discussed, some stores have transitioned to operating solely online. If you're a regular Amazon consumer, you might want to explore local vendors who provide similar goods. You could potentially pay slightly more for the product or receive it a few days later than usual, but these minor, short-lived adjustments can significantly help sustain your community.
Contribute to Local Initiatives While seemingly obvious, local charities and organizations are suffering from more than just a financial downturn at this time. They are also experiencing a shortfall in donations and volunteers, just as the demand for additional resources and workforce is escalating. So, how can we assist? The answer lies in diligent research. Your expertise may be in high demand and can be utilized safely from a distance. Hospitals are reaching out to skilled seamstresses for homemade masks, schools require online tutors, and families on social media are seeking supplies. A quick online search could match your capabilities with those in need. Visit www.volunteermatch.org to discover opportunities to serve your community. Bonus Tip: If you have pre-purchased tickets for an event that's been cancelled, consider foregoing a refund and donate the money back to support local arts within your community.
Collaborate with Larger Organizations For those residing in a populous city with needs exceeding what local initiatives can handle, turn your attention to larger, national organizations. Bodies such as the Red Cross, Meals on Wheels, Feeding America, among others, are diligently working to assist those affected by this health crisis. If you possess additional resources or the capacity to contribute, consider supporting organizations that are nurturing your community from a distance.
Foster Community Spirit from Home We all can best serve our communities by adhering to stay-at-home orders and reducing our interactions. Practicing safety measures like social distancing at the grocery store, eliminating unnecessary contact with others, and regular hand hygiene all contribute to community wellbeing. There are countless opportunities to volunteer virtually, make drop-off donations, or buy gift cards from favorite restaurants. Simple gestures such as sending an uplifting video to friends in healthcare, making a phone call to an elderly relative, or encouraging your children to create cards for their teachers can be performed from the comfort of your home and have long-lasting community benefits.
Remember, even while at home, it's never too early to plan for the future. Connect with a Mortgage Advisor from CrossCountry Mortgage today to explore more.
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