There’s no denying that the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting us all. Social distancing and instructions to self-isolate have changed our lives in ways we couldn’t have imagined a few months ago. While the times we’re living in are challenging, they’re also creating a sense of solidarity within our communities. In neighbourhoods like the Beaches, the Bluffs, and Birch Cliff, we’ve seen locals supporting one another like never before.
Here are a few of the inspiring ways that east end residents and businesses are banding together…
Support for local eateries
It’s been weeks since Toronto’s eateries were asked to close their dining rooms in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19. They’re not only complying with these instructions but going above and beyond to continue serving their customers.
Corbin, a staple on the east end food scene, has been offering up its upscale comfort food for delivery and takeout. Most recently, locals were quick to buy the special packages the restaurant put together for Easter and Passover. The owner of the Birchcliff, a local favourite for espresso-based beverages and snacks, is also going out of her way to make deliveries.
Local restauranteurs are making life a little more enjoyable for quarantined community members, who are supporting small businesses whenever they can!
Grocery store assistance
Of course, we can’t eat takeout for every meal. While groceries and other essentials are widely available, picking them up has become more complicated than it once was.
Fortunately, local grocers have stepped up to serve the community. We’re seeing stores adopt safety precautions, such as reducing the number of customers allowed inside at any given time. One of the biggest priorities has been ensuring that those most vulnerable to COVID-19 can secure what they need safely.
Rod and Joe’s No Frills and the Loblaws in the Upper Beaches are both offering designated hours for seniors and at-risk shoppers. These are just two of the local locations offering this service. If you know someone who could benefit from them, a bit of online research is sure to turn up a helpful option nearby.
Community mask-making
Our city’s health care facilities have a major role to play in fighting the spread of COVID-19, and some are even finding ways to involve the community. Here in East Toronto, Michael Garron Hospital is doing just that.
The challenge is simple. Collectively, we need to sew 1000 fabric masks each week. They’ll be distributed to hospital visitors, discharged patients, and other members of our community to reduce the risk of virus transmission. If you’re interested in participating, you’ll find mask specifications and drop-off information here.
This challenge is especially close to our hearts because we’re longtime supporters of Michael Garron Hospital. If you have even basic sewing skills, we hope you’ll consider donating your time to this very worthy cause!
We’re in it together
When it comes to community members helping out during the ongoing pandemic, the examples above are just the tip of the iceberg.
In the past few weeks, we’ve heard stories of neighbours buying and safely delivering groceries for those in need. We’ve seen local businesses go the extra mile to provide essential services that help us all. Of course, we’re also aware—every single day—of the health care workers who are putting themselves on the frontlines.
There are so many little ways for all of us to do our part. Start by staying home, practicing social distancing, and following the directives our government is issuing.
Have questions about the real estate market during this challenging time? We’re here to answer them—get in touch to ask us anything.
