Supporting Maine’s business community during the COVID-19 pandemic

Originally published as part of a longer article in the Bangor Daily News
By Dana Connors, Quincy Hentzel, Deb Neuman, Opinion guest column

The Coronavirus, or COVID-19 pandemic has caused tremendous disruption for every Mainer. Shops and businesses are closed or not operating as usual, many people are not working, many are working remotely while also looking after their children who are normally in school or childcare. Much of Maine’s workforce — health care workers, first responders, and other essential-services workers — are going above and beyond their regular duties, some risking their own health to take care of Mainers in need.

Adding to our worries about the health of our families, friends, co-workers and ourselves, many are profoundly concerned about how the businesses they own or work for are going to endure the pandemic. The immediate and long-term needs of Maine businesses, especially small businesses, are of utmost importance right now. Every Mainer relies on them. Not only for the services and goods they provide, but the jobs they create and the numerous contributions they, their employees and their families make to Maine’s economy and communities.

Maine’s state, regional and local chambers of commerce are working together to do everything we can to mitigate the pandemic’s economic impact. Assistance is coming together to help employers and workers weather the pandemic.
As part of our efforts, we are continually updating our websites and sharing resources available to help businesses stay afloat in the coming weeks....

...The chamber community also has launched Pay It Forward Maine, led by the Portland Regional Chamber, to encourage Mainers to support businesses however they can. These businesses are there for us every day. It is our turn to be there for them, whether it’s our favorite lunch spot, gym, yoga studio, book or hardware store. Pay It Forward Maine has put together ideas, most of which can be done online, that include: Utilizing delivery, take-out and curbside services at local businesses. Buying gift cards for ourselves or others to retailers, restaurants, shops, and movie, concert and theatre venues. Purchasing class passes for gyms and fitness studios. Purchasing merchandise from favorite retailers, breweries and restaurants. Volunteering time and more.
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We hope people will share their # PayItForwardMaine plans on social media and challenge their friends to take part. Think of the impact if we all participate. Plus, connecting virtually with others during this time of “social distancing” may help us all feel less isolated. By helping our communities and local businesses, we may feel better knowing we are doing something to help one another.