by Iara S.

Many small businesses are struggling to stay afloat through the COVID-19 shutdowns, which will mean fewer local businesses when we are allowed to go out again—unless we do something to support them. It can be difficult to think of ways to patronize small businesses while adhering to stay-at-home orders, so we’ve complied this guide to help.

Some ways to support your local businesses

• Shop online – If you can offer services to local businesses to help them sell and promote online.
• Get your goods delivered, not only for groceries but toy stores, flower shops, bookstores, etc.
• Therapy, tutoring and gym or dance classes can be taken online.
• Buy gift cards or credit for later. Treat yourself or a teacher, friend, school, hospital staff
• Shout out your favorite businesses at Yelp, Google, Facebook, 4square, LocalEats, Eat24, etc.
• Spread promotions from your local business through social media.
• Give an extra tip for service workers.
• If you can, continue to pay your memberships and subscriptions, cleaning, hair stylist, nanny, etc.
• Instead of a refund, donate to the organization or businesses or reschedule the service for later.
• Start a fundraising campaign (with permission from the business).
• Start a local business network where people can engage with local businesses remotely. 
• Send a thank-you note or an email to your local business owners.

Where to find which businesses are open and functioning

• San Bruno Chamber of Commerce – Open and adapted Businesses: A regularly-updated list of open businesses in San Bruno, including modified hours and services.
• San Bruno Life Facebook page: A page maintained by real estate agent, Karin Cunningham, which regularly features local businesses and what services they are continuing to offer.
• South San Francisco Chamber of Commerce – Support Local [PDF]: A list of operating restaurants and food and beverage establishments still operating in South San Francisco, complete modified hours and services.
• City of Millbrae – Millbrae Restaurants Open for Delivery and Takeout: A list of restaurants still operating in Millbrae.
• Burlingame – Support Local Businesses: A list of businesses currently operating in Burlingame, including modified hours and services.
• Pacifica Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center – Restaurants Open During COVID-19-Shelter In Place: A list of open grocery stores, convenience stores, and restaurants offering takeout, including modified hours and services.

If you know of any other ways to support local businesses please share them with us. We desperately want our favorite businesses to still be operating after all this.