Downtown small businesses in greater need of support

"Specifically, we want support for those facing hardship as an indirect result of the current restrictions on hospitality, not least the suppliers of hospitality and retail businesses, and also for businesses without premises - home and vehicle-based businesses - the directors of small companies, freelancers and those earning less than 50 per cent of their income from self-employment".

They account for 99.6% of all businesses in the state and employ 45% of North Carolina's private-sector workforce. Small businesses everywhere are struggling due to Covid-19, and downtown St. Joseph is no exception.

"Whether it's jewelry, clothes, pampering products, kitchen gadgets, nails, art, or any classes, why not buy from those we know??".

This holiday season "Shop Small" and support your favorite small businesses.

Small Business Saturday, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, originated 10 years ago in response to another economic crisis, the Great Recession.

"It's just a matter of smiling and seeing the smiles on people's faces", said Good. They are owned by people who are local and really get what the town is about.

She anticipates December being busy because of the holiday season as well.

Shoppers will be asked to mask up and keep their distance from one another, but that doesn't mean they can't still #ShopSmall. They're teaching us that showing up in person is not the only way to shop. Nearly every town has at least a couple of local eateries and/or bar-restaurants.

Mills says more local guides will be available throughout the holiday season. "When you shop there, you are supporting people that are apart of that community".

Some of them may be doing OK, all things considered, but others are in trouble.

Dave Maloy, the owner of Neal's Shoes in Warren Plaza on Elm Road in Warren, said small businesses play a vital role in communities, so the recognition is appreciated.

We can't afford to let that happen.

In a hard 2020, small businesses are hopeful for more upbeat moments in the spotlight.

What's more, while local and dispersed business ownership strengthens the middle class, the ever-increasing size and presence of corporations is driving unprecedented inequality. They're owned by - and employ - our family and friends and neighbors.

"We have been really busy".