In trying times, support local!

Today, for the first time since writing this column for so many years, I found it difficult to find a subject to write about. These are scary times and trying to stay uplifting can be a challenge.

I am at home for the last number of days, trying my best to follow instructions. Seeing local pubs and restaurant closing was heartbreaking and my thoughts are with everyone impacted by it.

I am in the same boat as all my events and workshops have been cancelled and like many others, I am worried about my income. But I am only one person, imagine the pressure small businesses with staff are under.

Benny McCabe was one of the first to close his pubs even before the Government ordered it as he was not only worried about visitors but his staff also. He employs over hundred people in Cork – that is a huge impact on the local economy.

Restaurants are offering take-away where possible but a lot had to close as well. Some chefs and cookery schools are holding live sessions on Facebook with some great ideas. Paul Treyvaud in Killarney is even doing a live cook-along. The Wooden Spoon Cookery School is offering quick and short live videos on creating some easy recipes that even your kids can put together – same for A Touch of Magic.

Local Blarney woman Kate Durrant asked me to create a little uplifting video – so I recorded how to create an immune supporting drink (you can check it out on Bia Sásta Facebook Page as well as on the Muskerry News one).

And talking about the immune system, never was it more important to look after yourself. So, when shopping, may I ask you to go to your independent grocery store and butchers? Some of them are offering delivery service – as most will have Facebook/Twitter pages, please check out your local businesses and see how you can support them during these times.

Large corporate supermarkets will feel the impact less than the small corner shops and delis around the country. SuperValu and Centra branches, although part of a large organisation, are owned by private mostly local people – so pop in for your weekly shop.

Bradley’s on North Main Street is always supporting the local community, now it is time to repay him by using his shop more than before. Call in and say hi – he is worried as much as you are.

This country and its people are amazing – coming together in times of hardship and helping out.

Almost every community has a Facebook page that covers local news, check them out and see what is on offer and what is needed – elderly people living on their own might benefit from a delivery of their groceries.

Or why not bake some delicious soda bread and bring it to your neighbour? There are many things we all can do but above all, please stay safe.