Life is getting just a tiny bit more challenging at the minute. Can we all just agree that this isn’t the most enjoyable of times? That’s a relatively fair assessment of things, given the circumstances we find ourselves in. Institutions so integral to the social order of society has since had to adapt to the changing environment. New laws have been passed, schools no longer operate in the same way and work has taken up a whole new meaning with the home taking over as our everyday workspace.
Knowing the after effects
The after effects of all this is that the situation looks grim for local businesses. With over 3 weeks to go in this circuit breaker (CB) period, it seems like the situation isn’t ending anytime soon. In spite of this, we should all do our part in supporting local businesses. During this circuit breaker period, as part of the community, Delegate will be donating SGD1 for every package purchased on Delegate to The Courage Fund by NCSS. Donations will go towards supporting vulnerable individuals and families affected by COVID-19. Here are some other ways in which you can help!
Tingkat and bento meals
How many of us actually cook our own meals during this CB period? Even if we do, there are bound to be days where we want to take a break. Food delivery services such as FoodPanda or GrabFood are likely to come to mind as alternatives. Just before you go on to order that usual fast food meal, maybe it’s time to consider another option.
Tingkat food delivery services work great as alternatives. Firstly, chances are that the food won’t be as unhealthy as what we usually get for delivery. Also, tingkat works on a subscription basis so it’s quick and hassle free. Alternatively, you can also have bento meals. They definitely offer a variety of food options. So, even if you have that picky family member, there is bound to be something for everyone! Explore these bento meal options and satisfy everyone’s tastebuds.
Indulge in some sweet treats
We all know what comes after the main course. Things get a little more exciting cause now it’s time to look through some dessert options. After a long day of working from home, we deserve to give ourselves a little treat, right? Local bakeries and cafes are found all over the island! It’s just a matter of narrowing down your options and satisfying that particular craving for the day.
Maybe you can even buy some sweet treats as a gift for a close friend or relative! It doesn’t have to be a birthday or anniversary, just showing appreciation to your close ones. After all, let’s not forget that social distancing does not equate to diminished social connections. In fact, being physically isolated from others should make us want to strengthen our social connections. Cupcakes and cookies can only help us in our cause! You can have a look see at some custom cakes and dessert caterers here.
Support with Gift Cards
Local businesses have had to think on their feet because of the CB period and many have started launching digital gift cards. Buy now, use later – it’s very straight to the point! Digital gift cards are a great way of helping local businesses as the money goes directly to them upon purchase. Similarly, they work great as gifts too. On top of gift cards, there are also many other packages that our vendors have put together that you can purchase now for delivery or use later after life has gone back to (a new) normal. Check them out here!
Send your friend a Care Pack
Being physically separated from the ones we love is tough, be it our close friends, extended family or our partners. We are social creatures after all (yes, that includes all you introverts as well). Why not show our love and bridge that social distance? Zoom meetings and Houseparty get-togethers can only do so much, right? Gifting someone a care package is a nice reminder to the special ones in our lives that we are, metaphorically at least, by their side.
Donate and spread the word
Most of us would have gotten the one-off $600 Solidarity Payment from the government. This money is meant to help families tide over this global pandemic we are currently facing. We have to be cognizant that the impact of COVID-19 and this CB period will be different and unequal for different groups of people. For some, that money equates to another month of not needing to worry about electricity or water bills.
So, if you can, why not consider making a contribution. Give what you can and if this mentality is inherent in many of us, it can snowball into a movement. Be part of the community and spread the word on your social media channels to get the ball rolling. There are many opportunities here where you can help. Ultimately, it is about doing our part as members of this society. We’ve been hearing a lot of SG united lately, time to live up to that. We are donating SGD1 for every purchase on Delegate, so support your favourite vendors and do good at the same time!
Another initiative we started is more inclined to those in the wedding industry. From brides-to-be to wedding vendors, these are unprecedented times for all. We want to be part of the solution and that is why we started this Facebook group – Save Wedding Vendors. We aim to build a community of helpful vendors and members. You can post your queries, ask for recommendations and share promotions or reviews as well.
