This Christmas, consider giving a gift that will not only brighten the face of a loved one, it could help lift the spirits of an entire community.
What is it? It is a gift purchased from a locally owned small business; and it could be almost anything.
When you patronize local shops and purchase local services, you help keep your friends and neighbours employed. You also help local business owners who might be struggling in these difficult economic times.
Your gift doesn't have to be something that fits in a box wrapped up with a bow.
Still scratching your head for ideas? How about these:
Everyone gets their hair cut; why not give a gift certificate to someone's favourite salon? Or how about a gym pass or restaurant GC?
For the car buff, an oil change or auto detailing package.
Maybe a senior might appreciate you hiring someone to shovel their driveway and sidewalks.
Or may we suggest a gift subscription to your local daily newspaper?
And there are plenty of local artisans and crafters who can provide one-of-kind creative gifts.
All of these ideas have one thing in common - they support local businesses that in turn employ local residents and keep the wheels of the local economy moving.
Is saving a few bucks ordering online from the U.S. or China worth the drag it puts on economic activity here at home?
Shop local this Christmas. The job you save could be your own.
- Managing Editor
Jon Manchester