The strain on small businesses continues to grow as the COVID-19 outbreak develops globally. With much uncertainty on the horizon, many businesses have temporarily closed their doors, particularly with the announcement on March 23 from the Ontario government regarding the closure of non-essential businesses.
A number of Quinte businesses have pivoted to meet the challenges presented by the novel Coronavirus head-on. Chefs and restaurateurs quickly began to offer takeout and delivery options; retail outlets switched to online ordering; and other services have transitioned to seeing clients virtually with fitness training, yoga and meditation classes.
Here are a handful of some of the Quinte businesses that are innovating their usual operations to continue providing services to the community.
This list is *not* comprehensive, but merely a snapshot. We invite you to also see our growing list of available food services and a list of virtual activities for when you’re at home during COVID-19. Take care of yourselves and each other.
FOOD
A quick look at the Green Wheel Farms Facebook page reveals abundant micro greens grown by Max Valyear. This urban farmer is typically a vendor at the Belleville Farmers’ Market, but has switched to doing pick-ups from his home on Saturdays and is looking into bicycle deliveries for those who can’t leave their residence.
Seeing takeout orders lined up in the sunny window sill at Lola’s Café in Brighton brings a small dose of joy to our social media feeds, particularly when those containers are filled to the top with cheesy lasagne.
The Gogi Korean Grill, which just opened its doors in Quinte West earlier this year, swiftly moved their business to takeout only. You can enjoy their full menu with favourites like gyoza, bibimbap and ramen from the comfort of your couch.
His business name might seem deceiving at a time like this, but you can *virtually* Eat with Matt DeMille every Wednesday. He and his wife Erin, a talented pastry wizard, have postponed their usual interactive cooking classes but continue to bring a changing menu of delicious dishes to your door. He’s also looking into Zoom cooking classes, yes please.
FITNESS
Incorporating movement into your day can help relieve stress, but being inside all the time can make it feel difficult to get exercise. Bring The Fitness Guild into your living room (virtually) through their Facebook page for exercise videos with Jacquie and Mindfulness Minutes with Janet.
It’s completely understandable that many of us are experiencing stress, anxiety and worry about our health, families, work, and a laundry list of other things. The Yoga Hub has moved to offering online yoga and meditation classes to help bring a bit of quiet and calm to your day.
RETAIL
Quinte West creatives Plain Jane Artistry and Colourful Courts Jewellery, both previously participants in the Side Hustle Market, are selling their cheery and colourful wares through Instagram and Etsy.
Exposed brick walls and a warm atmosphere make Pure Honey Boutique in downtown Belleville a knockout shopping experience. Owner Jess may have closed the physical doors, but she’s begun sharing the store’s curated clothing selection on Instagram to provide locals with some #outfitinspo and the opportunity to purchase online.
Flowers, in their simplicity, have a remarkable ability to put a smile on your face. While the roadside stand at Dahlia May Flower Farm is temporarily closed to the public, Melanie is doing contactless delivery of her colourful spring blooms. Add a bit of colour to your day with an order on her website.
SERVICES
Social distancing doesn’t have to mean complete social isolation. In the absence of a physical office space to meet, We Thrive Wellness is offering phone and video appointments, making it possible to access psychotherapy, life coaching and naturopathic services from their staff.
