10 Ways to Support Local from Home

Spending more time at home has allowed us to find new, innovative ways to continue supporting local businesses and organizations in Simcoe County. Whether you’re new to the area or a local advocate, here are 10 ways you can support local from home.

1. Follow Local Businesses on Social Media

If you don’t already follow your favourite local business on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest. Like their posts and if they’re running a contest, share it with your friends! They’ll appreciate your support. You may also want to give #SimcoeCounty a follow.

2. Order from a Local Restaurant

Take a night off from cooking dinner and order from a local restaurant. Lots of local restaurants offer take out or delivery through Uber Eats or Skip the Dishes. You’ll love the break and they’ll love your support.

3. Start Holiday Shopping

Why not grab a few stocking stuffers early? You know you’re going to need them. If you’re already out in a locally owned shop, pick up one extra item that you can tuck away and gift later.

4. Give Locally

Whether you can help by volunteering, donating food and supplies or give a monetary donation, local charities would be more than grateful. Something as simple as sharing their posts to your social media pages is a caring way to support.

5. Send a Kind Message

Take a creative approach to staying in touch. Sending a thoughtful email, direct message or a handwritten letter to a local business is a simple way to show your support while brightening a local business owner’s day.

6. Share Your Experience

Have a few favourite local businesses? Share your experiences with the online community! Give a Google Review or share kind words about local businesses with your social media circle. Include a photo, if you have one.

7. Buy a Gift Card or Two

Buy a gift for yourself. Think of a few services that you use regularly or a local coffee shop that you usually stop at and order a gift card to use at a later date. It’s a gift for you and the business owner, win-win.

8. Support Local Farmers

Many local farms have onsite markets that offer a variety of seasonal produce, eggs and dairy products. Some even sell canned goods, honey and maple syrup year-round. Call ahead and pick up your order or visit a local market, whichever you prefer.  

9. Join an Online Class

From fitness and wellness to art and music, there are plenty of local businesses that offer classes online. Some are free and others have a small fee. Find one that suits your interests, learn something different and support local, all from the comfort of your home.

 
10. Shop Online

Many local businesses have added online shops to their websites. They may even have products listed on social media. With plenty of local businesses offering delivery and pickup options, you can get the product you want, in the way that works best for you.

Simcoe County is overflowing with local businesses, many finding new ways to gain awareness while providing products and services online. From supporting local on social to placing an order for pickup, there are plenty of ways to show support.