Since the WHO’s declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic in early March, unprecedented closures and restrictions have brought businesses throughout the country to a screeching halt. Local businesses have been hit particularly hard. And in a little town like Sheridan, WY, where small business is our life blood, it’s more important than ever to ensure we support local businesses during closures in any way we can.
How You Can Support Local Businesses During Closures
If you’re a resident or frequent visitor of Sheridan, you know that small business is part of what makes this town so beautiful, unique, and truly special. Delicious restaurants and coffee shops, the WYO Theater, downtown shops and galleries, historic museums and general stores… these are the businesses and iconic landmarks we’re at risk of losing. But if we all work together, we can keep Sheridan standing strong.
Here are some ways you can support local businesses during closures.
Donate to WYO’s “Lights Up Fund”
Located in charming Downtown Sheridan, the WYO Theater is a performing arts and education center dating back to 1923. After 60 years of live and film performances, the theater closed in 1982. It was revitalized in 1989, and has been bringing entertainment and education to the streets of Sheridan for the last 30 years.
The theatre is now on a “virtual recess” and is requesting donations for its “Lights Up Fund” to help it reopen when possible.
Order takeout
Sheridan’s restaurants might be closed for dine-in meals, but several are still offering takeout options. Support local business AND take care of dinner in one fell swoop.
Some Sheridan restaurants still open for takeout include: Frackeltons (pickup and delivery), Sapporo (pickup), Rib & Chop House (pickup), and Silver Spur Cafe (pickup).
Buy a gift card for later
You can still support businesses that haven’t yet reopened, or continue to offer support if you’re self-quarantining or out of town. Gift cards are a great way to show patronage from home. You can even schedule appointments at places like hair salons (which are starting to reopen) for when life has returned a bit more to normal.
Get ahead on holiday shopping
While you’re buying gift cards and booking appointments for yourself, you might consider getting ahead on some holiday or birthday shopping. You may not need a gift card to a particular local store or restaurant, but if you know of someone who might be interested, consider the benefits of making some advanced gift purchases.
Keep in mind, businesses need the money a lot more now than they probably will come holiday season!
Want to Know More About the Sheridan Community?
If you’ve been dreaming of life in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, Century 21 BHJ Realty would love to help you find home. As long-time Sheridan residents, we more than know the community—we’re invested in it, and we truly care about the people, and the businesses, within it.
If you have any questions about home buying, selling, or investing in Sheridan County, please don’t hesitate to contact us at any time!