The order to close businesses in Washington has left many of us asking how we can best support small businesses during this crisis. If you can financially do so, please consider going out of your way to support locally-owned Spokane businesses and organizations right now. Here are seven ideas on how to do that:
1. Order takeout
Bars and restaurants have been ordered closed, but many are finding ways to offer takeout. Some are even offering delivery services for the first time. Call your favorite local restaurants or visit their Facebook pages to find out what alternatives they're offering customers.
2. Change your habits
You might only grocery shop at Safeway or Wal-Mart typically. But those large businesses have more resources to help employees and stay in business throughout this crisis. Instead, think about stopping at locally-owned establishments.
3. Plan ahead
Have a birthday party to plan for later this year? Reserve a location or entertainer now. That support -- and a down payment! -- will give small business owners a boost during a scary time for them.
Like, Wish upon a stars events, and Wonderland family fun center, who recently redid their outdoor mini golf.
4. Make summer camp, and camping plans
It might be hard to picture right now, given the situation, but summer is just a few months away. Now is the time to plan for summer for your kids. Then reserve those spots for camps now. Businesses and organizations will appreciate that support!
Check out this Local Favorite! Shores Acres Resort on Loon Lake.
5. Buy gift certificates
Almost any business will allow you to buy a gift certificate for later use. Most have online options. That will give them the cash they can use now to pay bills and employees, and you can look forward to spending it when restrictions have lifted. Gift certificates aren't just for restaurants -- think about businesses ranging from Cat tales animal rescue, that is currently unable to raise funds the only way they can during the shut down, or other family favorites like, Sweet Repeat maternity & Kids, Mobius,Escape, Wonderland Family fun center, and Blue Zoo Spokane.
6. Don't ask for your money back
Extracurriculars canceled? Gyms closed? Daycare shuttered? Consider asking for makeup classes or time rather than asking for your money back. They need every penny you can afford to offer right now to stay solvent and pay employees.
7. Donate to Local food banks.
While many secondhand stores are not accepting donations or consignment currently because of the coronavirus, places like our local food banks are helping families suffering financially during this crisis -- like laid off restaurant workers, retail employees, and others. You can make cash donations online. Contact your local food bank to help, We also have amazing resources like our Mobile Market by Second Harvest.
