All restaurants and bars are closed through March 30, but you can still support these small businesses by utilizing drive-thru, delivery and curbside pickup where offered. Also, consider buying gift cards online to use later. This small step can help these local businesses get through this difficult time.
Most banks are staying open, but following social distancing recommendations by closing their lobbies and providing drive-up services or online banking. They are committed to work with those experiencing unforeseen hardships. Also, during this time, bankers are reminding customers to protect their personal information. A bank will never ask you for sensitive information over the phone.
More information is available at https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fwww.cbaionline.com%2fdownloads%2fTalkingPoints03172020.pdf&c=E,1,qNLlm1ekHVtFQmO7FpvTjKhmk8OYzYpa_Rm8Xf3BSAR70A4DCs-b-uxT0GPRxWp7IQC8oFXSFQK3X3R8XUJBrdH7jx04sx36hx9YXu4rX1l2XbKkpwLN7RzfkNo,&typo=1
Under Executive Order 2020-03, some licensing-application requirements for cannabis sales have been changed, and some deadlines pushed back. Some dispensaries are taking precautions and enforcing social distancing recommendations. At least one Chicago-area dispensary has ceased recreational-cannabis sales to protect its medical cannabis customers.
If you’re a small business in need of help, the Small Business Administration will provide disaster assistance loans for small businesses impacted by COVID-19. More here: https://www.sba.gov/coronavirus.
If you’re looking for ways to help local businesses, consider the following options:
- Order delivery or curbside pickup from restaurants offering it
- Buy gift certificates online for later use
- Shop local online
- Buy what you need – but avoid stockpiling
- Sign up for virtual community experiences
- Follow your businesses and chamber of commerce on social media to hear more about how you can support small businesses in your area
