The Estevan Chamber of Commerce is calling on people to support local businesses by shopping locally at Christmas approaches.
In a press release, the chamber said that since early this year, the chamber has been focusing on supporting members through accessing programs, answering questions and listening to calls of concern.
“We have been working in co-ordination with chambers across the province and many other stakeholders within Saskatchewan and our community to navigate through a difficult time,” the press release said.
“We express our support for the targeted approach the Government of Saskatchewan has taken to address the rising cases in ‘hotspots’ and support the mandatory mask requirements and physical distancing recommendations.”
Returning to a widespread lockdown, which some have suggested to curb the spread of COVID-19, would be catastrophic to local businesses, the workforce and to community organizations.
The societal and economic harm would have lasting, irreversible impacts. Focused and strategic regulations that will curb the spread of COVID-19, while allowing businesses that are operating safely to keep their doors open, must be followed.
“We encourage everyone to buy from a local store and remind you that buying local supports your neighbour, a family, your friend and will ultimately drive our economy forward,” the chamber said.
For many in the community, the mental and financial strain over the last several months has taken a toll. Businesses have had to adjust.
“We appreciate the teachers and students that have continually been asked to adjust,” the press release said.
Finally, the chamber said everyone owes a huge debt of gratitude to all the healthcare workers who work diligently to ensure the public’s safety.
“In whatever capacity you find yourself within this community we would like to offer a gentle reminder that we are all doing our best to navigate through uncertain times. We will come through this much stronger if we all work together and we will all have an easier time until then if we keep kindness as our focus.”
