cards online , with some providing additional discounts through their websites or social media .
Order Take-Out When Possible You miss visiting your favorite local restaurants . And they miss seeing you , too . But just because you can ’ t enjoy the restaurant atmosphere doesn ’ t mean you can ’ t enjoy their dishes . If you feel comfortable , one solution is to place an order for delivery or pick-up . Take-out orders have been keeping restaurants afloat these past few months and will continue to do so until the COVID-19 begins to dissipate . So , the next time you ’ re craving your favorite restaurant dish or just need a change from your own cooking , consider placing a take-out order with an Atlanta eatery .
Enjoy an Outdoor Patio Soon , it will be spring in Atlanta . It ’ s one of the best times to enjoy our Southern city . If you feel comfortable , another way to support Atlanta ’ s restaurant scene is to visit one of the many beautiful patio spaces . Have brunch in the sunshine . Take a break from the office and eat your lunch at an outdoor restaurant . Take advantage of the longer daylight hours and treat your loved ones to dinner al fresco . With outdoor dining , there is more air movement and it ’ s easier to social distance . It ’ s an opportune way to enjoy a meal and continue supporting Atlanta ’ s restaurant industry .
Give to Organizations that Give Back When a restaurant closes , either temporarily or for good , it ’ s not just the restaurant that suffers . It ’ s also the owners , chefs , servers , bartenders , hosts , and other staffers who suffer . Those who were struggling to make a living wage before COVID-19 are facing even more dire circumstances . One way to show your solidarity and support Atlanta ’ s food service industry is to donate to an organization such as the Giving Kitchen . Giving Kitchen , which is based in Atlanta , provides emergency assistance to food service workers through financial support and other community resources . The financial assistance helps cover the employee ’ s rent , utilities , and other critical needs . Giving Kitchen also operates a Stability Network , which connects people to resources related to mental health , physical wellness , social services , and legal services . The organization has supported more than 6,000 food service workers in crisis . By getting involved or making a donation , you can make a huge difference .
" Giving back through Giving Kitchen means that you share our commitment to providing emergency assistance to food service workers with compassion and care . Keep the lights on , the water flowing , and the rent paid for someone in need ,” says Jen Hidinger- Kendrick , Co-founder and Marketing & Communications Director of Giving Kitchen . “ With small donations , when pooled together , can make a profound impact on the life of a food service worker , and their family , throughout the year . Please consider giving a one-time donation or sign up for a recurring gift to make sure food service workers know that you have their backs ."
Step Up Your Support It ’ s unclear exactly how COVID-19 will impact Atlanta ’ s restaurant industry in the long-term . But for the next few months , at least , restaurants will continue to pivot , re-strategize , and adhere to everchanging health protocols . We can assist those restaurants and employees by stepping up and continuing to support these fellow businesses . After all , these gathering places are the heart of our local communities . They deserve our help .
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