Editor’s note: This letter was provided by the Pelham Chamber of Commerce.

Dear Pelham Community,

As we all are dealing with the challenges posed by the coronavirus and face these uncertain times together I wanted to take a moment to reach out on behalf of the Pelham Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is a collective of businesses and nonprofits run by our friends, family members, and neighbors. One of the things that makes Pelham the vibrant, tight-knit community that we’re known for, is our unique ability to come together even in uncertain and scary times.

Many of us have taken risks to open businesses and start non-profits in Pelham, not to get rich but to support the community we all love. The days and weeks ahead are going to be challenging for all of us. As the owner of Cantina Lobos, and Director of Programming and Theater Operations at The Picture House, as well as a volunteer, and a dad of children in Pelham schools, I share the concerns that many of you have as we face this new distressing reality together.

For many of our business owners (myself included) we don’t have the option of staying home and closing down as it could be disastrous for our businesses and for our employees. All of the business owners that I’ve spoken with are putting extra cleaning protocols in place and making adjustments based on CDC and State guidelines for our customers and clients. Many restaurants and businesses deliver, offer curbside pick-up, or online shopping. Nonprofits like County Harvest and Pelham Together continue to provide relief and resources not just for Pelham but County-wide.

So, what can we all do to support one another? Check in on vulnerable neighbors, maybe send someone flowers from one of our terrific florists, buy a gift from one of our many great stores and boutiques for someone feeling anxious, deliver food to someone who doesn’t feel comfortable leaving their home, or stock up on gift cards from local businesses and cultural organizations for the coming spring holidays and end of year teacher gifts. This is also a great time to get involved in one of our many dynamic non-profit organizations.

Most importantly, stay home if you aren’t feeling well and along with social distancing, practice empathy and kindness. We’re all in this together and as we always do, we will come out stronger as a community. I’d love to hear from you so please feel free to email [email protected] with suggestions, questions, or concerns.

All my best,

Clayton Bushong

President

Pelham Chamber of Commerce