These are tough times on so many levels. And as we all hunker down, do our bit to help flatten the curve and stop the spread of COVID-19, we are also worried about our local community and how the situation will affect our small businesses in particular: our farms, breweries, artisans, farmers markets, restaurants, bars, nonprofits, and more. These are times to increase support, not just these coming weeks while businesses are shut and we’re all practicing social distancing. We need to support beyond the time when the virus is under control and we’re back to “business as usual”. To make sure we can go back to that “usual”. So, we encourage our readers to #supportlocal, now more than ever.
►As long as grocery stores are open, so should farmers markets, with specific guidelines and rules to acknowledge the current health emergency. Keep appropriate distance, adhere to the emergency regulations but do go and pick up those vegetables, meats, cheeses, breads, honey. Without the socializing, live music and popup foods, farmers markets really are just like grocery stores—and in the open air at that! Check your local Farmers Market’s webpage before you visit to make sure they are open. Visit our guide to farmers markets for website and contact info.
►If you regularly enjoy a meal out—breakfast, lunch or dinner—don’t stop now. So many restaurants offer to-go and curbside delivery now, and they can certainly do with the support. Pick up the phone to order from your favorite restaurant or try a new restaurant to see what they have to offer. Compiled lists like Edible Houston's Resource Guide and Texas Monthly (for barbecue) are also great resources to find places open for curbside pickup and/or delivery.
►And while we do encourage you to do that, let us also consider the people in our community that don’t get to eat out under normal circumstances, and how the closures (of school and work place) impact their next meal. School children are especially at risk and many schools are providing food to those in need. For pick up locations, visit https://www.covid19txfoodresources.org/home
►Consider donating that little extra to the nonprofit with a mission you support, so they can take care of those who need it. Second Servings of Houston and The Houston Food Bank spring to mind for the food insecure but so these emergency relief actions for the hospitality Industry, and Farm & Ranch Freedom Alliance (FARFA) for small farmers and ranchers.
►How about planning ahead! Sign up for a farm share for next season (here are some suggestions in the Houston area), for instance. Take a leap of faith and pre-order from a vendor or store, get money into the hands of small business owners now.
►Last but not least, as we may develop a little cabin fever, this is also a time to reflect on our lifestyle and what we can do and improve to help our community rise above this stronger than ever.
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