The order to close non-essential businesses in the Greater Springfield area has left many of us asking how we can best support small businesses during this crisis. If you can financially do so, please consider going out of your way to support locally-owned Springfield businesses and organizations right now. Here are eight ideas on how to do that:
1. Order takeout
Bars and restaurants have been ordered closed for dining in, 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. Check out this list of locally-owned restaurants that are offering curbside pickup & delivery options.
2. Change your habits
You might only grocery shop at Wal-Mart or Hy-Vee 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 MaMa Jean's Natural Market, Harter House, Well N Good Health Market, Worden's Meat, American Meat Company, and Farmers Market of the Ozarks - that has a temporary drive-thru set up!
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. Check out our 2020 Birthday Party Guide!
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! Springfield has many great Summer Camps - check back soon for our Summer Camp Guide!
5. Buy gift cards
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 cards aren't just for restaurants -- think about businesses ranging from local gift shops, salons, pet stores, indoor play places, painting & pottery shops, and bookstores.
6. Purchase Memberships
Many of your favorite indoor play places offer annual memberships and have this option available online. Similar to purchasing gift cards, this financially supports the business now so they can pay operational expenses and your family can visit when they reopen. Consider places like The Discovery Center, Itty Bitty City, Dickerson Park Zoo, and your local Community Center. Most businesses are extending the dates of membership during this time of closure.
7. 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, if possible. They need every penny you can afford to offer right now to stay solvent and pay employees.
8. Donate to Local Organizations
While many secondhand stores are not accepting donations or consignment currently because of the coronavirus, places like Ozark Food Harvest and Diaper Bank of the Ozarks are helping families suffering financially during this crisis -- like laid off restaurant workers, retail employees, and others. You can make cash donations online.
