Top 10 Ways You Can Support Local Dutchess County Businesses

Date Published: March 23, 2020

We have all been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in one way or another. In this time of isolation, we can continue to support one another, whether that be financially or emotionally. As we know, small local businesses are suffering, so let's do our best to be there for them, as they continue to serve us in whatever capacity they can. Below we're sharing some ways to help.

Order takeout or delivery from your favorite local restaurants 
As of 8PM on March 16, 2020 New York State restricted restaurants and bars remain open, however they can stay open to provide takeout and delivery only, and many of our local businesses are doing just that. During a time where we are encouraged to stay home, this is a great option and wonderful way to continue to support local establishments. Dutchess County restaurants are working hard to continue to serve the community during this difficult time, so let’s show them support too! Find a full list of restaurants offering takeout, curbside pick-up and/or delivery here.

Enjoy attractions through virtual reality
Sadly, almost all attractions are closed at this point, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t enjoy them! Many places are adapting and offering virtual experiences, from tours to online programming - like the FDR Library and Fisher Center at Bard. Whether you tune in from afar to create a virtual vacation, or find these videos useful for keeping kids occupied during homeschooling, it’s a great way to continue to enjoy the places we love here in Dutchess. Find a list of attractions offering virtual experiences here.

Purchase items from local craft beverage businesses
In addition to restaurants, the craft beverage industry is being impacted as well. We have some amazing local products that are still available for pick-up and delivery. And let’s be honest, we could probably all use a drink right about now! Find a list of wineries, breweries, distilleries and cideries that are currently open here.

Support local farmers
Many local Dutchess County farms and farm stores remain open during this time, offering curbside pick-up and even home delivery on fresh items such as meats, cheeses, produce, eggs, baked goods and more. Find a full list courtesy of the Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County here.

Refrain from cancelling memberships
This is a trying time for everyone. We get it. But if you’re able to, try to refrain from cancelling monthly memberships. Whether that be from local fitness studios, beauty or delivery services. These local businesses need us more than ever, so if you can afford it, keep supporting them, and let’s all hope we can get back to normal life soon!

Purchase gift cards 
We will get through this. It may take weeks, or even months, but eventually we will be able to come out of quarantine and resume life. Many of us will be itching to go out to dinner, take our favorite fitness class, or browse the shelves at our favorite boutique. By purchasing gifts cards to these places, we can help local businesses now, while giving ourselves something to look forward too in the future!

Order online from your favorite boutiques and florists 
Speaking of your favorite shops and boutiques, many are still fulfilling online orders. Check their social media pages for exclusive deals and more information about ordering.

Shout out business out on social media
Even if you can’t afford to support local businesses financially right now, that’s ok. Show them some love on social media! Share an old photo of yourself enjoying local art galleries, historic sites, restaurants and more, and tag businesses! Money isn't everything, we can show emotional support too! 

Share your outdoor adventures and show off Dutchess’ scenic beauty 
You may be thinking, how would this support local businesses? At some point this pandemic will be over, and life will move on. When that happens we are prepared to welcome visitors to Dutchess, while promoting and building back up our local tourism economy! In the meantime, we can continue to share the scenic beauty all around us. A win-win in our opinion. Get outside, breath in fresh air, and feel less isolated while respecting social distancing, all while sharing why Dutchess County is such a wonderful place for a getaway!

Donate to help local charities and businesses 
Still unsure about ways to directly help local businesses? Don’t be afraid to reach out! Contact your favorite neighborhood spots and ask how you can help, whether that be volunteering remotely or contributing monetarily. They will appreciate it more than you know. Additionally, the current pandemic has unfortunately caused people to lose their jobs, many of which were already living paycheck-to-paycheck. United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region is taking donations for families impacted. Your donation will remain in our Dutchess and Orange County communities and will provide lifesaving resources to families impacted by COVID-19.

For more details on major attraction closures, lodging updates and restaurant regulations, click here.