The COVID-19 crisis has drastically altered businesses in Florida and left many of us asking how we can best support small businesses during this time. If you can financially do so, please consider going out of your way to support locally-owned Lake County 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. So far, we have ordered from BTW in Tavares, Cousin Vinnie's and Brick & Barrel in Leesburg. I heard Cody's on 4th in Mt. Dora offered cookies for free with to-go orders one day and Tony's Pizza & Subs is offering kid's pizza making kits! Downtown Leesburg restaurants have a to-go lane now so you can pull up and get curbside service. If you want to share your favorite local restaurant with our readers, please tag them on our social media.
2. Change your habits
You might only grocery shop at Publix 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 places like locally-owned The Hometown Market, and Bountiful Farms.
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. We suggest: Adventure Cove, Jungle Zone, Via Entertainment, Santa's Farm and Skate World.
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. Then reserve those spots for camps now. Businesses and organizations will appreciate that support! Check out our Summer Camp Guide for some of the best in the area!
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 such as: Bella Toscana Spa, Mission Inn Golf Resort, Alexandre & Company, Mount Dora Marketplace businesses and Karen's Canine Kitchen.
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 Lake Cares
While many secondhand stores are not accepting donations or consignment currently because of the coronavirus, places like Lake Cares Food Pantry are helping families suffering financially during this crisis -- like laid off restaurant workers, retail employees, and others. You can make cash donations online.
