Support your local businesses and farms, shop locally and help your community

Clarington May 14, 2020/- Local Clarington businesses and farms continue to diversify and adapt to find new ways of doing business during the COVID-19 pandemic. As we turn the corner and see an easing of restrictions, Clarington Tourism would like to encourage residents to shop locally and support our local economy.

“We have an abundance of local food and farm-fresh products. Let’s support those who work hard to feed us,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster. “As retail stores reopen for curbside pickup and delivery, there are many ways you can explore your local stores and BIAs virtually and on social media,” added Mayor Foster.

Here are some easy tips: 

Shop local - Consider making purchases from small businesses in Clarington. For more information, visit Clarington’s Business Improvement Area websites:  

• Bowmanville BIA: bowmanville.com  
• Newcastle BIA: villageofnewcastle.ca
• Orono BIA: visitorono.com  

Order from local businesses online – Many small businesses have adapted their operations during COVID-19 to offer online ordering with curbside pickup or home delivery. 

Farm-fresh – There are many ways to get fresh, locally-grown produce and goods in Clarington: 

• Bowmanville REKO Network – This is a Facebook-based virtual farmers’ market where customers can purchase directly from small-scale producers. Join the Facebook group (or search on Facebook for the Bowmanville REKO Network).
• Kendal Hills Farm Virtual Farmers’ Market – This virtual farmers’ market opens for sales every Thursday at noon. Purchase directly from farmers and have your order delivered to your door. Visit their website, kendalhillsfarm.ca.

Invest Durham – A Durham Economic Task Force was created to support businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Invest Durham website provides lots of information on businesses, including local farms offering delivery and curbside pickup in the Durham Region. Visit www.investdurham.ca.

Purchase gift certificates now to use later – The Clarington Board of Trade and Office of Economic Development has partnered with FanSaves to offer gift certificates for Clarington small businesses. You can purchase gift certificates at cbot.ca.  

Support restaurants – Many restaurants are offering delivery and takeout services. For a list of restaurants and cafés visit the Clarington Tourism directory, www.claringtontourism.ca.

Show support on social media – Let the local businesses know you care by liking and sharing their posts. Take the time to share your shopping experience and promote your favourite local business on social media; they will appreciate it.

“There are lots of options for residents to support our local economy. By supporting your local businesses and farms, you are supporting your neighbours and friends, or family members who work in those areas. Let’s help each other and our community,” added Mayor Foster.

For more information, visit www.claringtontourism.ca. Follow Clarington Tourism on Twitter @clartourism or Facebook @TourismClarington.    

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Media Contact:

Basia Radomski
Communications and Tourism Manager
905-623-3379 ext. 2214