Three Ways to (Safely) Support Brookings Local Businesses During COVID-19

Apr 16, 2020

To say we’re living in unprecedented, challenging times during COVID-19 is an understatement.

Our new “normal” of self-quarantine and limited in-person interactions with friends, family, and coworkers has taken a toll on all of us, especially small businesses here in Brookings.

You’ve likely heard the phrase “support local” multiple times throughout the course of this pandemic, but just how can you and the entire Brookings community best support our local businesses? We have three (safe) ways!

Three Ways to Support Brookings Local Businesses

1. Utilize Online and Pick Up Options

From restaurants, to hardware stores, to clothing stores, every business is feeling the effects of COVID-19. While many of these Brookings businesses now have altered hours and limited in-person services, it’s still possible to show your support!

Shop their online store, order lunch for pick up or delivery, and choose to buy those items you normally get from Amazon from one of our local stores instead. You might pay a few extra dollars, but supporting our local business owners whose livelihoods depend on our community backing them up during challenging times is priceless.

Purchasing gift cards to these local businesses is another great way to show your support. You can help them now, and your future self will love the gift card when you have the opportunity to use it!

These people are your neighbors, friends, and family members, so let’s show up (safely and if possible, online) and give these people the support they deserve!

Not sure which businesses are open and what services are available? The Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce has up-to-date retail and food and beverage operation information available on their website. Plus, you can always call the business or check out their social media for the most up-to-date info.

2. Share Your Experience

Not only is it important for you to support local businesses by purchasing their products or services, it also helps when you share your experience with others!

Did a delivery driver from one of our many great restaurants go above and beyond to bring you your order? Show your appreciation by giving a bigger tip than normal or call the manager at the restaurant and praise the employee’s work.

And you know what they say, a picture is worth 1,000 words. Take a picture of your coffee or lunch, the new shirt you purchased, or a receipt from a local service and express your gratitude by posting it on social media. Let your friends and family know how much you appreciate our local businesses and why they should, too!

3. Take Advantage of Brookings Auto Repair At Home Services

We understand you have enough on your plate, and trying to find time to safely drive your vehicle to our Brookings car dealership for service shouldn’t weigh you down.

The Einspahr service department is still open for business, and we’re now offering FREE pick up and delivery options for Brookings service customers. We’re also offering these services to neighboring towns for a small, $5 fee.

We’ll change the oil, make the repair, or perform whatever maintenance your vehicle needs and fully disinfect it before returning it safely to your home.

In need of a new or used vehicle? Take advantage of our online shopping feature s at Einspahr.com. You can browse our inventory, and schedule an at-home test drive, and we can complete all the necessary paperwork at your home!