As businesses shut down in response to the coronavirus, many people find themselves at home and without a source of income. That said, there is a lot residents can do to help the community cope with such negative impacts of this outbreak.
Todd McGee, Orange County community relations director, said the Department of Social Services is collecting non-perishable food items to give to families that meet certain income requirements.
“Because schools are out, a lot of children who rely on schools during the day for food are no longer able to get meals,” he said.
Food donations or checks can be dropped off at the Southern Human Services Center in Chapel Hill, or the Department of Social Services building in Hillsborough. Online donations to the DSS can also be made. Families can make an appointment to pick up their meals by calling the DSS.
Marilyn Payne, marketing manager for the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership, said they recommend residents support local businesses by continuing to spend money at restaurants and stores. Payne said a lot of businesses are now selling goods at discount prices and that everyone has the opportunity to use the parking spots in front of stores for free.
Payne suggests ordering to-go food from restaurants or buying an online gift card.
“We know everyone has to eat,” Payne said. “What community members can do right now to help, is spend.”
Payne also said restaurants are taking great steps to make sure the food they are making is as clean as possible.
"The steps that local restaurants are taking to ensure that the food they prepare and provide to customers right now is the possible amount of safe is incredible," she said. "The amount of effort from businesses is wild."
