Businesses across the province have been hit with more pandemic-related closures, writes reporter Kathleen Smith in a recent article in the Goderich Signal Star.

Effective from Jan. 5 until at least Jan. 26, the province has returned to a modified version of Ontario’s Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen. This includes restricting indoor dining and capacity limits for retail stores.

Recognizing that public health and a healthy economy are intrinsically linked, Heather Boa, operations manager of Huron Chamber of Commerce, said closed doors and job cutbacks have a ripple effect throughout the community.

“This current round of new restrictions unaccompanied by any immediate and commensurate supports is hurting our small retailers, gyms, restaurants and any businesses that supply to them, including local food producers,” Boa said.

“We need a comprehensive plan that ties restrictions to clear, data-based metrics so that employers, workers and families can plan.”

Boa suggested a few ideas to support restaurants and suppliers: purchase gift cards, buy merchandise from restaurants including sauces to clothing, order directly from breweries, cideries and wineries, or write a positive review on social media even if food was take-out or delivery.

Residents can also support local businesses by spending money locally, rather than shopping online.

Read more on the Goderich Signal Star website.