Buy gift cards to help local restaurants survive

We’re often asked what the public can do to help Pennsylvania’s taverns and restaurants in light of the financial struggles being caused by COVID-19 mitigation efforts.

Since the holiday shopping season has started early this year, here is an idea.

For those interested in helping provide a lifeline to the industry, we want to encourage them to include on their shopping lists gift cards from locally owned, small business establishments.

The nice thing about gift cards is that they don’t have to be used immediately by those who may be leery of dining out this winter.

Of course, they can also be used for takeout meals by those looking for a meal they can enjoy in their own house or apartment.

Those whose holiday shopping list includes gift cards from local taverns and restaurants will not only give wonderful gifts, but they’ll also bring hope for better days to an industry that is fighting for survival.

Chuck Moran

The writer is executive director of the Pennsylvania Licensed Beverage and Tavern Association.