How can we support local businesses while social distancing over coronavirus?
Jessica Evans
For Jessica Evans, real estate is more than a job — it’s a way of life...
For Jessica Evans, real estate is more than a job — it’s a way of life...
As more people practice social distancing across the country, small businesses will feel the impact.
Already, restaurants in as far as Seattle have closed indefinitely due to dwindling business associated with the coronavirus outbreak. As one restaurant owner told The Seattle Times, “unfortunately in an already difficult climate in Seattle to operate a small business, the impacts of the decrease in business due to the coronavirus has forced us to close our doors for good. We are a small business, and we were unable to weather the storm from the coronavirus.”
DC is especially supportive of local businesses, from restaurants to farmers markets to retail locations across the city. But with the increased caution around public spaces, how can we continue to support small, local businesses?
Here’s a few ways to continue supporting local:
1. Focus on Purchasing Local Produce
Supplement your diet with fresh local produce from farmers around the DC area. Check out the following options for produce and dairy that can be delivered to your door!
- Washington's Green Grocer for your fruits and veggie needs.
- Centrolina for dairy and produce sections that are stocked with goods from farmers and artisans from Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania and Italian specialty items which include anchovies, olives, vinegar, olive oil, salumi, imported and local cheeses and sweets. Wine and craft beer is also available for sale.
2. Opt for Delivery or Takeout
While dining rooms for eat-in service may be closed in DC, many restaurants are still open for order ahead pick up or no-contact delivery to your door. You can still patronize your favorite restaurants and establishments for food and drinks.
Check out our recommendations:
For more local options, check out this list from the Washingtonian
More delivery and order ahead options at Eatstreet, Postmates, and GrubHub
3. Stock Up on Entertainment or Download it to Your Devices
Social distancing is a great excuse to binge watch that TV show you've been meaning to watch, but there’s also other ways to stay entertained at home. In addition to streaming services we recommend books, puzzles, and board games!
Check out the following options for local bookstores::
- Capitol Hill Books is currently open but for appointments only. Email [email protected] to schedule an hour slot for four people or fewer.
- Kramer Books offers 1 Hour Delivery but you can get more books delivered from Kramer Books in under an hour using the @postmates app. For curbside book pick up, call (202) 387-1400 or email [email protected] to place orders. Call when you arrive and they will run outside with your books.
4. Buy a Gift Card For Later Use
Support your hair or nail salon by skipping the appointment in favor of purchasing a gift card online. That way you can still support their business and use the purchase at a later date. Don't have a favorite place? See our recommendations below! You can always hang on to the gift card and use it as a gift for a friend or family member.
Do check out the following: