This past week, thousands of small/family owned businesses were forced to close their doors in the fight against COVID-19. In a matter of days, independent businesses in all of our communities completely lost their income or have been severely limited in their offerings, causing lay-offs that match depression era devastation. This is not limited to but includes: restaurants, diners, bars, cafes, coffee shops, gift and novelty shops, hotel and banquet employees, salons, massage therapists, photographers, independent practitioners and artisans of every kind. I'm sure there are some that I've missed! These are the people that make up our communities. These are our neighbors. These are the people and places that give our local towns depth and provide income for so many local friends and families. How will all of these workers be able to pay rent/mortgages, care for children, maintain utilities for households and provide adequate food with reduced or zero income? I understand that government elects are working hard to create a stimulus package and I URGE you to pass legislation that will include small businesses. Providing relief to not just big corporations but for the every day people and families that have been devastated by this shut down. Please consider funding for independent businesses everywhere and the people that we love. This is the only way to ensure that our families and industries will sustain and be able to have a comeback when the time is right.
Very Sincerely,
Heather Ueltschi-Seymour
Server/Nola's in Clinton NY 13323
