Simple ways to make a positive impact in our community.
1. Like and Share to Help Local Retailers
You can’t shop online currently but don’t let your local shops feel like you’ve forgotten them. Retailers and restaurants have suffered more than most businesses during this pandemic and for many of these local small business owners, they are personally taking the hit. Like, share and promote their recent Instagram posts or maybe even recent photos from your last meal there to spread their reach and show your support. Buy gift cards online if you can for post-lockdown shopping sprees and celebrations.
2. Buy from Local Growers
With restaurants closed, our local farmers need us! And let’s be honest, springtime is the very best time of the year to eat locally-grown fruits and vegetables, including Bermuda onions, giant ears of corn, sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, leeks and tomatoes. Many of our local farmers are currently taking online orders – give your favourite grower a call and find out how you can purchase a crop of your favourite produce from them or if you see local produce in the supermarket, choose those options over imported.
3. Stay Home and Follow All Orders from the Premier and the Government
Seriously, follow the rules. Doing so not only keeps you safe, but the wider community, especially essential workers and those who are at greater risk to COVID-19 because of age or underlying conditions.
5. Reach Out
Social isolation can be lonely. Text, call or email those you love and make sure they’re okay, especially if they live alone.
6. Donate!
If you’re able to, now is a great time to support our local charities! Even just a $5 donation makes a huge difference to organizations working to take care of those in our community who need it. Some great charities doing amazing work during COVID-19 are Coalition for the Protection of Children, Meals on Wheels, St. John’s Ambulance, Women’s Resource Centre, Eliza Dolittle Society, Bermuda Red Cross and Salvation Army.
7. Say Hello!
It’s important that we don’t forget how to be human even while practicing social distancing. You never know how much a friendly wave or a warm greeting can turn someone’s day around.
8. Make Masks If You Can!
Masks are the fashion accessories of the year, if you have a sewing machine and are skilled at using it, try making masks to donate to essential workers or for yourselves. Too many of us are still using disposable masks which generate mountains of single-use waste and are prone to being littered. It’s a small token that can go a long way.
9. Freeze Rent Payments If You’re Able
If you’re a landlord and have stable or extra income, consider (as some have reportedly done) freezing rent payments or giving a rent reduction to ensure that no evictions occur for tenants struggling financially during the pandemic. Your decision to do so could have a massive impact on a family in need.
10. Share Positive News
Thankfully there are plenty of examples of people helping others in the age of COVID-19. Share them as you come across them and together we help lift each others spirits.
