How to Support Your Local Community

The effects of COVID-19 have been felt across the world in businesses and at home. For those who depend on income from tourism in Mexico, it has been especially difficult as many resorts, restaurants and shops closed temporarily. After several months, many businesses are gradually reopening and have updated health and safety standards designed to keep customers and visitors safe. Do you live in Mexico or visit regularly? If so, keep reading below to learn how you can help support your local community as we transition into the new normal after the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Shop Locally

Supporting your local economy is more important now than ever before. Whenever possible, try to shop locally to support businesses in your community. Try to buy groceries and fresh foods at local markets and avoid the big grocery store chains if possible. Also, it makes sense to have a few weeks supply of food at home in case of an emergency. However, don’t go over the top and excessively hoard supplies. Buy only what you need and be mindful of what others need as you shop, too. If you clear out a store of a certain product, you are limiting and affecting the needs of others. In Mexico, the majority of working-class Mexicans live week to week or even day to day. Most people do not have the cash or credit to stock-up on food so be respectful of others as you shop and avoid clearing out a particular item.   

Home Deliveries & Home Helpers

Many local businesses are offering delivery services right now as people are slowly leaving home more. To support local businesses, seek out shops that offer home delivery.  Also, if you have home helpers that depend on that income, be responsible and try to keep them employed even if it isn’t possible for them to perform their duties at this time. As businesses are reopening, you can also consider giving your home helper extra days of work to help supplement their income. Also, many people have found they can help employ local taxi drivers and couriers by using them to buy and deliver groceries to your home.  Due to a lack of tourism, many taxi drivers have faced severe economic hardship so the extra work goes a long way. 

Prepare Care Packages for Those in Need

In Mexico, many organizations and individuals have come together to help prepare care packages for those in need. In Puerto Vallarta, many local restaurants and humanitarians have been working hard the last few months. Likewise, care packages for local families affected by the loss of tourism and income in the area have been distributed. It will take awhile until the effects of COVID-19 are not so evident. In the meantime, consider donating food or home goods that you don’t need right now. For example, shoes, clothes, children’s toys would make someone’s day who is having a hard time providing for their family.   

Stay in Touch with Loved Ones 

During these challenging times, make sure to stay in touch with loved ones. Many people are finding isolation and the lack of connection with loved ones can bring them down. To stay happy and healthy, make sure to regularly reach out to family, friends and neighbors. If you can’t loved ones in person right now, send text messages, email or call to stay in touch. Everyone is dealing with the crisis and adjusting to the new normal in their own way. Remember to be respectful of others opinions and feelings at this time. Respect and understanding goes a long way to ease struggles during hard times.   

The economic impact of the COVID-19 crisis was felt across the world and in local communities in Mexico. If you’re a foreigner living in Mexico, your local community needs you now more than ever. We hope you enjoyed this article on how you can help support your local community in practical ways. Looking for a second home in paradise? If so, consider the exclusive beachfront community at Garza Blanca. They have luxurious private beachfront residences in Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas. With access to world class amenities and services, a vacation home at Garza Blanca is the cream of the crop. Contact them today to see which residences are still available for sale. Don’t let life pass you by. Instead, seize the moment and make the most of every day!