Truro and area businesses try to make the best of it.

TRURO, N.S. – The uncertainty that comes with COVID19 is reaching deep into the business community.

Many people have cancelled travel plans, or are off work. That has a trickle-down effect for other businesses.

Danielle Sawada, who owns Thrown Together Pottery, in Truro, has closed the retail segment of her business but is continuing with classes.

“I’ve had about a third of the people back out of classes so far,” she said. “Even though the classes are very small, some people just don’t want to go out.”

With lost income and future needs uncertain, she’s finding things especially difficult because it’s almost time for her to put in her yearly order for clay.

“It’s very tricky, but as tough as is for me, I know it’s tougher for others,” she said.

Andrea Munroe, owner of Enchanted Forest, has closed her storefront but offers online and phone orders. Purchases can be shipped out or picked up at the door, and local delivery is free.

“I closed the storefront becuase I feel it’s important to commit to social distancing to protect the vulnerable,” she said. “Small businesses want to remain accessible for people who do want to purchase something, keep staff employed and provide things when people want them.”

She encourages people not to be careful with money, but if they’re planning to make a purchase, to remember many small businesses are adapting so they can continue to provide goods and services.

“Support isn’t just about money. People can support business by liking, commenting and sharing social media posts.”

She noticed, during the last few days her storefront was open, that more orders were coming in online and over the phone.

Grace Smith-weatherbee owns Grace’s Doggie Daycare and Boarding, in Debert.

“I have lost boarding for two months so far and I have minimal day care,” she said. “I just have the dogs from people who still have to be at work but have not travelled anywhere, but they are keeping their distance, coming in one at a time and not crowding the door. I am not sure how this will all play out but it certianly has me very worried. You count on your boarding and busy times to keep you going in your slower times, but this is usually my busy time.”

Bruce Roberts has seen a dramatic decrease in business at Hub Cycle and notes fewer people on the streets.

“We’re open normal hours as of now, and trying to disinfect as much as we can,” he said. “We’re offering pickup and delivery for repairs, and we’ll meet people in the back parking lot if they’re more comfortable there.

“Biking allows people to get physical activity and helps their state of mind, and it takes place in the fresh air so it’s still relatively safe. There are many things people can’t do now, so we’ve seen bikes that haven’t been used for quite a while being dug out of garages and coming in for repairs.”

Munroe feels, even though it’s a difficult time, people want to help others.

“I realize it’s a scary time for everybody and I recognize the support of customers and the community,” she said. “In general, I’m feeling pretty positive and feel the love and support. I’m part of the Downtown Truro Partnership and I’m seeing a lot of collaboration between merchants. It’s amazing to see how many entrepreneurs are reaching out to see how they can help one another.”