The order to close businesses in Pennsylvania 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 businesses and organizations in the North Poconos and Hazleton region 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. Visit the Notes on our Facebook Page to view a list of local restaurants offering take out and delivery in Luzerne, Lackawanna, and Wayne counties. We have been updating the list daily with any changes.
2. Change your habits
You might only grocery shop at Wegmans or Wal-Mart typically but those large businesses have more resources to help employees and stay in business throughout this crisis. Instead, think about shopping at places like locally-owned Gerrity's, Carone's, Thomas', and Weis Markets.
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. Check out Pony Party Paradise in Shickshinny or Party Here and The Canvas Creation Company in Nanticoke for some ideas.
4. Make summer camp 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 so reserve those spots for camps now. Businesses and organizations will appreciate that support!
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 Saddle Up Farms for horseback riding lessons and trail rides, Grateful Roast Cafe and Coffee Roaster for a bag of freshly roasted coffee beans, Mountain Yoga for some relaxing yoga classes, Lady Jane's Mini Spa and Boutique for a mani pedi or some cute earrings, Soul Shine for a little bit of sage or a few crystals and gemstones, or Salon Joy for a hair color or waxing appointment.
6. Don't ask for your money back
Extracurricular activities 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 Brandon's Forever Home and the Commission on Economic Opportunity
While many secondhand stores are not accepting donations or consignment currently because of the coronavirus, places like Brandon's Forever Home and CEO in Hazleton are helping families suffering financially during this crisis -- like laid off restaurant workers, retail employees, and others. You can make cash donations online.
