How to Support Your Local Restaurants While Practicing Social Distancing and Where to Find Support

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

In the past month or so we’ve all become aware of the coronavirus, or COVID-19. The virus began far away from home but we, in the U.S., are now starting to feel the effects. Those of us with the flexibility have been allowed to, and in some cases strongly encouraged to, work from home. Additionally, many of us have been voluntarily practicing social distancing. This has also occurred involuntarily by some states limiting the amount of people that may congregate in one space at once.

Though what if you are in a position where you can’t work from home, it just isn’t an option. 

Supporting Restaurants During Coronavirus

If you work for a small business, specifically in the restaurant industry, teleworking just isn’t an option. Even while some restaurants remain open, some have made the decision to close or send staff home due to the dwindling number of patrons. If you’re a foodie like me, or you’re just passionate about supporting small, local  businesses, you’re likely wondering what you can do, empathizing with those who have no option but to show up to work everyday to keep their families fed. 

I received several emails from businesses I patronize regularly providing ways to support and updates about their current status.  

Here are some ways you can support:

1. Buy take out. I’ve gone to some of my favorite restaurants, and some I wanted to try for a while, for takeout. You may even be able to call ahead to place an order to pick up and go without waiting. I noticed more cleaning, staff wearing gloves, and providing sealed foods or plastic cutlery.  Restaurants are taking precautions to provide a healthy environment for customers.
2. Order Delivery. Not surprisingly, some restaurants are now offering delivery when they weren’t previously. Check third party delivery services such as Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub, Caviar, and Postmates. Also note that you may be able to order delivery directly from the restaurant. Restaurants and third-party delivery services are also adding a contactless delivery option.  
3. Gift Cards. Buying gift cards or certificates supports the restaurants financially during this slow time. I’ve even seen some accounts doing giveaways with gift cards just to support restaurants. 
4. House Accounts. I was not aware of this option before but you may prepay for your meals through house accounts. It reminds me of a running tab that you just prepay on the front end versus the back end. You get to dine without your wallet and restaurants get a much needed instant cash infusion. What’s even better is that some offer a bonus of $15, $50, or even up to $150. The paid portion usually never expires, while the bonus may expire after three years.
5. Buy Merch. Some restaurants may have an online shop to buy your favorite t-shirt, hat, mug, or reusable bag. Who doesn’t love a cute t-shirt. 

Finding Meals for Children While Schools are Closed

Restaurants are in this with us. I think the saying is, “if you want to go far, go together.” Just like we can support restaurants, many restaurants jumped into action back in March to provide meals to children and families in need. As someone who received free lunch as a kid, I know there are children who depend on the free breakfast and lunches they receive at school every day. Unfortunately, children may miss some meals since many schools have closed for the health and safety of students. While restaurants are struggling themselves and may not be able to offer as many free resources, I did come across a site finder to locate meals for children while schools are closed. The USDA developed an interactive map that easily allows you to enter a zip code to find the closest meal sites.

Updated December 2020.