How To Help Montgomery County Businesses During Outbreak

BETHESDA, MD — As the coronavirus spreads in Montgomery County, more residents are working from home, nixing family vacation plans, and canceling social and sporting events.

And while health officials say "social distancing" can help stem the spread of COVID-19, others worry that a drop in foot traffic spells trouble for small businesses.

"More than 95% of businesses in Montgomery County are small businesses with 50 or fewer employees," local officials said in a statement. "Supporting our County's small, independent, locally-owned business community is especially important in this time of crisis."

So, is there a happy medium — a way to stay healthy and support local businesses? Montgomery County leaders say yes.

Here's how:

Take Out and Delivery

It's never been easier to order food or alcohol online or through a mobile app. Take advantage of the services you have at your fingertips.

The Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce have put together a list of restaurants that are offering takeout and delivery services.

Buy Now, Use Later

Plenty of beauty salons, gyms, and yoga studios offer gift certificates. Buy one now and use it at a later date. Same goes for entertainment venues: buy a ticket now and enjoy the show later.

Shop Online

Who doesn't love online shopping? Now's the perfect time to buy store merchandise on a local company's website.

Tip A Little More

Tipping your gas station attendant, delivery driver, and nail technician a few extra bucks can make all the difference.

SEE ALSO:

• MoCo Coronavirus: Cases Double, Include Patients In Their 20s
• MD Governor Orders Restaurants, Bars, Gyms, Theaters To Close
• MD Comptroller Requests $500M From State To Support Businesses

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