The Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC) is encouraging members to find innovative ways to shop, eat and stay local in this time of uncertainty.
In the span of only a few weeks, the effect of Coronavirus on business has been extreme.
Now more than ever, supporting local commerce is crucial to the livelihood of these businesses and their employees who depend who on the continued support of their patrons.
Here are a few ways to keep it local while keeping healthy:
Give the Gift of Business: Buy a gift card now to a business that you typically frequent (i.e. restaurants, local cafes, caterers, etc). Use that gift card later, or gift it to someone who may need it.
Ask how You Can Help: If you know the owner or an employee, ask them how you can help. The range of problems that businesses are currently experiencing is broad, so any assistance will be appreciated.
Buy Now, Pick Up Later: If you planned on buying a manufactured product (electronic device, article of clothing, book, etc.), call the business directly and ask if you can arrange to pay for it now and pick it up at a later date.
Volunteer: If you know a business owner ask how you can help them during this time.
Refunds: If and event you purchased tickets to was canceled, don’t ask for a refund, consider the cost a donation or support.
Keep your Memberships & Subscriptions: If you have a subscription or a membership to a local business that provides a service (gyms/fitness studios, dance lessons, etc.) don’t cancel it because you aren’t attending at the moment. Many businesses depend on that support to keep their doors open and pay their employees.
The most important takeaway here is that your support over a period of a few weeks could literally save someone’s business. Please consider these suggestions to help your neighbors. We are all in this together.