Many of us are worried about what will happen to the workers at our favorite restaurant, bar, movie theater or any other business that is facing prolonged closures due to the Coronavirus.
We’ve got a win-win option for you to help.
You need things done outside, right? Get that stuff that’s been annoying you for years off your list by hiring your favorite service workers to help you. Our suggestion is to visit (or email) your favorite local establishment and put out the word that you’re willing to offer day work to any interested employee.
You can contract workers for raking, mowing, transplanting, gardening, painting, garage organizing … whatever it is that you need. An employee who knows you from your frequent visits is more likely to feel safe accepting such an offer.
That said, we don’t recommend inviting anyone into your home because infection is a concern. However, as long as you and your temporary worker keep appropriate distance from each other, there should not be a problem with that person painting your garage or planting flowers.
Gift Cards, Tip Jars and Take Out
There are several ways you can help your favorite place survive.
- Contact your favorite local restaurant or bar and buy a gift certificate.
- Get carryout or delivery if this is an option.
- Offer to add to their tip jar.
- Purchase a gift card online if the establishment is closed.
- If your favorite place doesn’t offer delivery, have it delivered by Grubhub, Uber Eats or DoorDash.
A member of the Curvicality team recently bought a $100 gift card to one of her favorite restaurants and shared a $20 tip. While this is a small act in the big picture, every little bit counts.
GoFundMe
You can even consider setting up your own GoFundMe if you know of a specific person who is in need and this individual is amenable to the idea. And if you don’t want to set up a GoFundMe but want to contribute, reach out to see who you know who is spearheading such a project. There are scores of fundraisers going on around the country.
Be a Friend
If you are not in the position to offer financial support, reach out to your favorite servers and offer emotional support. Drop them a Facebook or IG message, or call or send them an email to let them know that you are thinking about them. This small act will brighten someone’s day.
This virus affects all of us and we are all in it together. Getting through this ordeal will require us working together and looking out for each other. Our new motto is “each one reach one.” Every little bit counts.
If you have more ideas for how to reach out and help others through this crisis, please share in the comments.
