In the next few weeks as news about the coronavirus continues to evolve and cases are likely to rise in Minnesota, the habits of people outside of their home in turn will likely change, too.

While some people will choose to stay home as much as they can, others may still try to maintain as much of a normal routine as possible — just with a few modifications, such as avoiding large groups of people.

Whatever you do, we ask that residents not forget about local businesses. The coming weeks are likely to be a rough stretch for them.

Small businesses are the lifeblood of our community, and they need our support just as much as we need them. 

Whether it’s buying takeout or delivery instead of going to sit down in a restaurant, ordering online and picking up in person, popping in when fewer people are there, or buying gift cards from businesses to use at a later time, every little bit counts.

These businesses in the community support many efforts year-round, and we owe it to them in turn to support them in whatever way we can.

Remember, we’re all in this together.