TORONTO – NDP MPP Jessica Bell (University-Rosedale) has launched an “I Shop Local” sign campaign to encourage Torontonians to safely shop at local stores during the current busy shopping season and help small businesses survive the pandemic.
Businesses and residents can request an “I Shop Local” sign for their window during the holiday season by visiting: https://www.jessicabellmpp.ca/shoplocal
“The Ford government has refused to spend the money to help small businesses survive the pandemic. It’s devastating because their closures are preventable. We must do more to help main street get through this," said Bell.
“Many shops offer safe curbside pickups and contactless delivery, and to help give small businesses a fighting chance during this pandemic, we’re encouraging Torontonians to safely buy what they need from local stores,” said Bell.
The Ontario NDP is calling for the Ford government to provide immediate financial support to compensate small businesses and help with costs like rent and payroll, paid sick days for every Ontario worker, an extended ban on commercial evictions, and a fund to help businesses with remote-work set-up costs.
Quotes
Brian Burchell, Chair Bloor Annex BIA:
"Doug Ford likes to talk the talk about how he is 'so there for the little guy and how his heart bleeds' but he is doing basically nothing on the ground for small business. The vast majority of support - and we are grateful for it - is from the Feds. The province needs to step-up its game and help main streets survive, they after all, help to make communities liveable."
Gwen Bang, Kensington Market BIA:
"Through this pandemic and with the continuous advocacy surrounding the proper supports for our small businesses, we need to, now more than ever, Shop Local. Small businesses make-up a large portion of our economy and make our communities unique. We are depending on your patronage to keep the lights on! Our local shops have safety measures in place with curbside pick-up, takeout and online ordering being offered in many of our shops. Kensington is still open for business!"