COVID-19: the survival pack for social distancing and the economy

COVID-19. That's all anyone can talk about. Work, school, the media, our social media feeds, that's all you can see. And whether you actually have it or not (for those who have it, I pray for your speedy recovery and that you and your family may experience minimal negative impacts), we have all been 'infected' by this virus. Our worlds have rapidly and drastically been turned upside down as a result of this virus.

Mumchan - Aircraft

And although it is great to see many people acting selflessly and practising social distancing in order to prevent the spread of the virus, naturally, it has caused many unintended negative consequences in the economy. Particularly in hospitality which consists of mainly small businesses, people have lost their jobs and/or have been forced to close due to the lack of business. And even though they're not exactly the best person to receive advice about economic downturns - considering their contribution to the GFC, Goldman Sachs predicts a shrink of the economy by 6% (read the article from The Age here) as a result of people not spending money in the hospitality industry. 6% may not seem like a lot from a glance, just know that it's A LOT of money and jobs on the line. 

On top of that - my friend can come and be the little psychology nerd she is - to put it simply, people's fear and selfishness in this situation has put already disadvantaged and vulnerable people in a more disadvantage and vulnerable situation. These people may not have access or the capability to stock up weeks worth of supplies and here we see people taking WAY too much more than they need (even for a 14 day quarantine). Even so with the limits, be kind to the cashier or the person stocking the shelves. I have friends who work for grocery stores and chemists and have heard of the abuse they have to endure because of people's selfish actions. Majority of these people are TEENAGERS in their first job and are sacrificing much of their time and energy to provide you with these services. In these tough times, we need to spread love and kindness more than ever, maybe give the cashier a smile and a thank you because they definitely need it. 

Cafe Cui - Footscray

As we continue chugging along this thing called life (or is it a simulation?) there are many things we can do to spread love and kindness to help each other get through these tough times. The amount of action the international community is taking, especially the online community on social media has been really heartwarming.

• @thecitylane on Instagram, a Melbournian food blogger has been posting restaurants on his story who are offering/widening their take-away and delivery options. Some of the restaurants I have been dying to try so I'll definitely be doing that.
• @thegreylayers on Instagram, originally from New Jersey has set up a funding page which will give 'paychecks' to those particularly in the hospitality industry who have been let off or given no shifts in order to help them cover for their living costs. If you wish to donate, click the link here)
• One thing that we are initiating at my school is a volunteer program where students can promote their time and efforts to the vulnerable in their community and help them with daily tasks which they are unable to do due to self-isolation. Although you do not need to do this on a large scale, I highly encourage you to help out a vulnerable neighbour or friend who has been negatively impacted by the virus. 

Little or big actions, they're still actions regardless and we all need to play our part so that together, we can fight this crisis. 

Desserts by Night - Footscray

If you're wanting to support local businesses, check my post FOOD GUIDE TO POINT COOK, my Instagram account (@hhiver28), @thecitylane or any food blogger on social media. I also strongly encourage you to shop from independent grocers and speciality stores - not only are you supporting local businesses, but you're more likely to find the household food and supplies you need!

Spread love and kindness.