Here's How You Can Support Local Businesses: Tri-Valley

TRI-VALLEY, CA — Small businesses are facing significant losses and struggling to stay afloat as Bay Area residents are ordered to shelter in place. Some may be out of work and looking to save, but local business leaders have tips for those who are able to spend.

Stocking up on supplies? Buy local.

Residents who are sheltering in place are still allowed to leave their home to purchase supplies. If you're headed to the grocery store anyway, grab a bottle of Livermore Valley wine, said Robin Fahr, director of marketing and communications for Visit Tri-Valley. Buy items from local businesses.

Buy a gift card now, use it later.

If you can swing it, support your favorite stores by buying a gift card now. Cash in when stores reopen, Fahr said.

Tip on take-out orders.

Most people don't tip on take-out orders since they aren't receiving dine-in service, Fahr said. Food service workers rely on those tips.

Avoid shopping from Amazon.

It might be tempting to check Amazon for supplies and goods, but check websites of local retailers first, said Livermore Downtown Executive Director Rachael Snedecor.

See which businesses are open for delivery or take-out.

Apps such as Uber Eats, Grubhub and Postmates offer delivery options. Visit Tri-Valley and the Town of Danville have compiled their own lists of local restaurants that are still open for take-out.

Have other ideas? Comment below!