The wellness of our community is extremely important to us here at the Bluebird District. We want you to know that we’re monitoring all recommendations and updates from government officials surrounding the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. The first priority for everyone is to take appropriate steps to limit the spread of COVID-19 and ensure our entire community remains healthy.

During this time of changes in events, work schedules, and travel, we encourage you to remember our many small, independent businesses throughout our community and to continue supporting them even if you can’t visit them physically.

Here are a few ways you can support our local businesses – including many that don’t involve leaving your house!

  1. Order takeout or delivery and tip the same amount as you would dining in. 
  2. Help a neighbor + shop local. If your neighbors, friends, or family are in high-risk groups and need more isolation, offer to pick things up for them from local businesses rather than relying solely on online shopping from major corporations.
  3. Shop online or via phone. Many of our businesses have online shopping available; our local and independent shops will help you get what you need via phone, Facetime, or other methods, if necessary. 
  4. Buy gift cards. You’ll be able to enjoy them later while supporting small businesses now, when they need it most.
  5. Give your favorite biz a shout-out. It doesn’t cost a thing to give kudos to your favorite local businesses via social media, Yelp, or Google Reviews. It’s an incredibly difficult time for small business owners, and every bit of visibility and amplification helps.
  6. Let us know about businesses that can use some extra support. We’re here to amplify, encourage, and connect independent businesses in need to consumers who care.
  7. Share this post and information widely so others know how to help.

First and foremost, prioritize and take all health and safety precautions for yourself and others in our community. Our health as a whole depends on working together, and our local businesses are the heartbeat of our community. We want to make sure they continue to thrive while maintaining appropriate public health safety measures.

Questions? Concerns? Contact us at staff@bluebirddistrict.org.

Note: A version of these recommendations originated from Downtown Raleigh Alliance and are being shared through the International Downtown Association.