How to support local businesses during mandatory restrictions

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus throughout the United States this month has transformed American lives in ways many might never have imagined possible. Social distancing recommendations and restrictions on gatherings of more than a handful of people have had a ripple effect on the economy that has adversely affected many small businesses.

Small businesses are the backbones of local communities. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses make up 99.9 percent of all businesses in the United States and employ 59.9 million employees. The SBA notes that the accommodation and food services sector is the second largest small business industry. Many of these businesses have been hit especially hard as more and more of their regular customers stay at home in the wake of government advisories promoting social distancing.

But small businesses are vital to local communities, and there are ways to support them and help them stay afloat as they confront the challenges posed by the COVID-19 outbreak.

• Order take-out or delivery. It's still possible to enjoy foods from local restaurants. Places that had not previously done so have begun to offer delivery and takeout services, be it curbside or at-home, and this can provide a great respite for families who have had to cook three meals a day at home for their entire families for extended periods of time. Curbside delivery has made it possible to get takeout meals without compromising social distancing recommendations.

• Purchase a gift card. Gift cards can help small businesses generate revenue at a time when their doors are largely closed to the public. This can be vital to these businesses' survival, and it gives consumers something to look forward to when life returns to normal.

• Help market local businesses. Spread the word when local businesses deliver in the wake of the restrictions put on them due to COVID-19. Share these experiences and urge your neighbors to patronize these businesses.

Local businesses are suffering during the COVID-19 outbreak. But Carter County can come together to support business owners and their employees to help these vital businesses stem the tide.