Social distancing may help mitigate the coronavirus crisis, but it also impacts small businesses. Continue reading for four ways you can help the small businesses in your community!

 

Buy gift cards. Purchasing a gift card or gift certificate to your favorite shop, theater or restaurant is a great way to lend support to the business. Instead of using them now, set your gift cards aside to be used later.

Shop online. Because it is not possible to shop in-person, you should buy gift cards and store merchandise online! As long as you are supporting businesses in your community, you are helping to keep people in their jobs.

 

Order in. Your favorite restaurants may have had to shut their doors, but many of them still offer takeout or delivery. This helps to keep the business going, and it provides income for delivery drivers.

 

Tip more. If you do order takeout, consider being extra generous on the tips for delivery staff, since their income will drop due to fewer patrons. A bigger tip may not contribute to a restaurant’s bottom line, but it will help those who are feeling the effects of this trying time.