Businesses need support

Jaiden Herald | Co-Editor-in-Chief

Scott County businesses joined a long list of things being affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic as they have faced hardship in the light of reduced customers. As shelter in place, social distancing and quarantine restrictions have been mandated, local businesses have had to respond to a reduced customer base and therefore a decreased profit margin. In addition, many were forced to close in accordance with government regulations.

During such times of hardship, as a community, people need to come together to work to support our local businesses. While residents were restricted to essential travel only, they can still find ways to support local businesses still open during the pandemic. Many businesses are offering delivery or curbside pick up options. Customers are still able to support local business by ordering deliveries, making donations, purchasing gift cards or simply sharing/liking on social media.

Despite the circumstances, people must make an effort to remember and support local businesses as business owners and employees struggle during these unprecedented times. Local businesses are the ones that continuously donate and sponsor school fundraisers, sports teams and extracurricular activities. Local businesses are the ones that remember food orders and greet customers with a smile. Local business owners employ residents and students that allow for people to provide for their families and themselves.

Local businesses provide income for Scott County families. For some, it is their livelihood and passion. Owners and workers put countless time and effort into their craft and into the community. In recent years, local businesses worked to have an increased presence in the Scott County community. They have been essential in growing and progressing the community. They provide services and sources of employment whilecontinuing to improve our community as a whole.

As a community, it is our turn to support the businesses that sponsor little league teams, buy yearbook ads and donate to clubs. Everyone is being tried in new ways as we attempt to navigate these unprecedented times, but we need to do so as a community. We need to make a conscious effort to buy local and look for a way to assist local businesses during these times. Everyone is capable of helping. Challenge yourself to purchase lunch from a local restaurant or buy a gift for an upcoming birthday from a local business. Set a goal to merely share their business post or give them a shout on social media.

As we all struggle during these times of crisis, let us remember to look out for our neighbors and support them where we can. Furthermore, as we come out of these challenging times, let us remember to always support our local businesses.