As Christmas approaches during the pandemic, it's especially important to help local businesses and non-profits.Kelly Thompson, Vice President of the Quad Cities Community Foundation, says non-profits are being stressed just like local businesses.
"Three-quarters of responding Quad Cities non-profits are still operating at or above their pre-pandemic capacity - that's good news with the same or greater services as before. However two-thirds of responding Quad Cities non-profits have brought in less money than usual this year, both because of less brought in through fund raising and through decreases in other sources of revenue."
And about two-thirds have cut their staff, either by layoffs or attrition.
Along with your favorite charities, she suggests donating to the Quad Cities Disaster Recovery Fund that's handed out nearly four million dollars in grants since March.
Paul Rumler, President and CEO of the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce, says there are many ways to support local businesses safely during the pandemic.
"If you're uncomfortable shopping in person, give them a phone call. I bet if you can't find what you need they might be able to help you by phone. This is also a good time to buy gift cards. So think about contacting your favorite place and purchasing a gift card."
The chamber is also offering a "Keep It Quad Cities Gift Card," and businesses are giving these to their employees.
