PEORIA, Ill. — The COVID-19 pandemic has forced tough times upon small businesses across the country, as many have had to temporarily close or restrict capacity due to government regulations since March.
As the United States, and the rest of the world, continues the battle into holiday season, Peoria Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (PACVB) President/CEO J.D. Dalfonso said he is proud of the way residents have supported small businesses throughout.
“The region has been helpful in keeping in mind small businesses when they shop,” said Dalfonso. “As long as the community continues to come together, I think we’re going to be able to save many small businesses.”
Throughout the holiday season, many small businesses have extended deals in December to get shoppers inside their store.
“It’s still the holiday spirit — we still want to enjoy Christmas and the holidays,” said Dalfonso. “There’s going to be that urge to get out and buy things for family and friends.”
PACVB later this month will be doing “12 days of carryout” to highlight small business around the area.
“It’s just another way in which we wanna make sure we focus on small business,” said Dalfonso. “We’re keeping a consious effort at Discover Peoria as to how we can help the region and small businesses.
“Really, I’ve just been incredibly proud of with the entire community coming out to support their businesses in their own backyard.”
Since March, many area businesses have placed a focus on curbside pickup and carryout so patrons have a way of supporting them without actually having to go inside the store.
Full interview with J.D. Dalfonso:
