How businesses are handling COVID-19

By Mike Renzella

The Haldimand Press

HALDIMAND—With the spread of COVID-19, the world is entering uncharted territory. On March 23, 2020, Premier Doug Ford announced that all “non-essential” businesses are to close their doors for two weeks beginning March 24.

The impacts of this virus had already been far reaching before this announcement, both around the world and here at home. The Press spoke with several local businesses to find out how they are preparing to face this challenge.

Restaurants province-wide had already been forced to close their dining rooms in response to new, temporary provincial regulations, with take-out, drive thru, and delivery being the only way for food establishments to generate income.

“All of my staff has been laid off, and we’ve closed down the restaurant. We’re only offering takeout to the curb Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 12 to 8 p.m.,” said Debb Davies, owner of Debb’s Cuisine on Queen in Dunnville. “All my catering has been cancelled through the middle of April. That’s catering staff that I have above and beyond my restaurant staff; they’re now without work as well.”

Davies hopes that community support will help carry local businesses through: “Everybody’s money is going to be a lot tighter…. People are going to get a little bit restless about cooking at home all the time, so I’m hoping people will support us through takeout. If there is enough takeout, I can bring some staff in for a few hours a week to help me out.”