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Learn how to support businesses while staying safe
- Common concerns & resources -
An estimated 25 to 36 percent
could close permanently due to challenges related to COVID
Independent retailers return more than 3x as much money per dollar of sales back into the community than chain competitors.
For every $100 spent at local businesses, $68 stays in the community.
Minority-owned businesses are especially vulnerable and are disproportionately impacted.
̋Despite the 50% decline in sales we still have to pay 100% of our fixed costs. This is impossible. Rent was already high. Now it makes up 50% of our gross income.˝
Business owner
Facebook SMB Report
Research
Does the business offer contact-less pickup or delivery? We try to have it listed on Mapvil, but if not available, reach out to the business directly to inquire.
Tip
Tipping is 100% your choice, but if you have the means or desire, feel free to tip the business and delivery driver. Buying gift cards is also a great way to show support!
Mask On
If you plan to interact with any person, please show respect and wear a mask. They work hard to provide products/services to us, let's do our best to protect them.
Share
If you loved your experience, scream it to the world! Bring more awareness to the business by leaving a review on their Mapvil page and share on social media.
1. Is it safe to eat take-out food?
Yes! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "there is [currently] no evidence to suggest that handling food or consuming food is associated with COVID-19."
The virus primarily spreads via respiratory droplets from person-to-person. It's recommended that you wash your hands thoroughly and take care in not touching your mouth, nose, and eyes as much as possible. Read more here.
2. How do I stay safe when picking-up my online order?
If you are either picking-up a purchase from a business or having them delivered to you, always remember to:
A) Educate yourself on the precautions the business has taken to safely handle your transaction and whether they offer contact-less delivery/pick-up.
B) Wear a mask when interacting with another person (unless you have an underlying medical condition). Don't have a face mask? No problem - click here for how to make a DIY mask at home!
3. How do I stay safe when picking up packages delivered to me?
Select the option for contactless delivery whenever possible during checkout online, stay at least 6 feet away from the delivery person, and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water afterwards. Read more here.
4. What about instances where the service I’m provided is an activity (i.e. outdoor kayaking)?
It depends on the nature of the activity (outdoors/indoors, number of people participating, ability to socially distance from others not in your immediate household, etc).
As a rule of thumb, always do your due diligence by researching the business' safety precautions beforehand. Read more here.
Also check out our blog post, Do's and Don'ts of Eating Out During a Pandemic.
Mckinsey & Company, as of 6/18/20.
Mckinsey: Effect on minority-owned businesses, as of 5/27/20.
Facebook & Small Business Roundtable, as of 5/20.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of 6/25/20.
CDC: How to make your own face mask at home, as of 7/6/20.
CDC: Personal and social activities, as of 6/15/20.
Massachusetts.gov blog, as of 8/6/13.
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