While big corporations can recover swiftly from being out of business for a week or more, it can be devastating to small businesses. After Winter Storm Fern, many local restaurants had to throw out hundreds of pounds of food, with no opportunity to recoup the loss amid continuing power outages. Others are struggling to pay rent and employees after a week without customers. Here are some ways to help.
🛍️ Shop Local
While this one is obvious, shopping at your favorite local small businesses will not only help those businesses recoup losses from the storm, but also help local Nashvillians employed by those companies, who might also be impacted by the storm. Keep your money local as our economy recovers.
🪪 Buy a Gift Card
Some businesses are struggling to repair damages, recover from food loss, and still have power outages. Buying a gift card can help these businesses financially now, and you can use it later in the year.
💬 Leave a Review
Spend a few minutes writing positive reviews on Google or Yelp for your favorite local businesses. These reviews can help other people find the business, and it’s something you can do even if you’re struggling financially, too.
👋 Some Local Businesses Asking for Help
- The 5 Spot indie music venue is asking folks to buy a Support Pass for $10+, which can be applied to future shows.
- The nonprofit indie music venue Drkmttr is seeking donations through its Patreon or Give Butter campaign.
- After losing food, Mr. Aaron’s Goods and Crieve Hall Bagel Co. are asking customers who can to buy gift cards.
- State Farm is refusing to cover Lawrence & Clarke Cacti Co for lost inventory and wages. The owner is asking folks to share her story, and has launched a GoFundMe. Consider buying a gift card, too.
- Know of a local business that’s struggling? Let us know!
