[COVID-19] Resource Article Roundup

The past month has been filled with COVID-19 challenges for the restaurant industry. As a result, a lot of hospitality workers are now looking for help and are seeking answers about everything from filing for unemployment to economic assistance to where to grab a to-go cocktail.

Almost overnight, the nation's job market has completely changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the hospitality and travel industries have been (and continue to be) hit the hardest, other sectors are increasing their workforce to meet the demands that social distancing and flattening the curve have caused. 

Restaurants across the country are testing out ways to keep their businesses afloat, keep their employees paid, and to find new sources of revenue. With a Hashtag (#) and a string of a few simple words, the industry is uniting and sharing its efforts on social media, bringing awareness to curbside pick-ups,to-go orders, delivery options, and national movements sparked by this industry's survival efforts. 

COVID-19 has put the entire world on pause and the problem of not having enough time has been replaced with an extreme in the other direction. If you’ve been looking to learn a new language, increase your skillset, transition your career, or find something to talk about in your next Zoom Happy Hour, now is the time. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has led the hospitality industry into unchartered waters, and many in the hospitality industry are in need of a financial lifesaver to help them get through this challenging time. One option available is government assistance, in the form of unemployment insurance.
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While restaurant workers wait and hope for government assistance, food and beverage organizations, associations, and nonprofits across the country are looking to help those directly affected by the COVID-19 as immediately as they can. These national groups have made it their mission to help the hospitality industry.
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The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to the hospitality community is like nothing we've ever experienced before as a collective of hard-working, resilient professionals. While we are not able to offer an immediate solution, we offer some suggestions for coping right now and preparing for when things do turn around.

One bright spot during the COVID-19 pandemic is how it has brought people together as they explore ways to help each other. Virtual volunteering opportunities allow you to offer your time and help make a difference, even as you shelter in place to flatten the curve.

With restaurants shutting down, millions out of work and the entire nation encouraged to stay at home, those of us who are used to always being on our feet and moving around during the workday are likely to be going a bit stir-crazy. Luckily, many fitness companies and professionals now offer online options for staying physically active and require little-to-no equipment to do so. Plus, exercising regularly helps keep your immune system strong.
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Decades ago, Mr. Rogers’ mother used to tell him, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” Now, even as restaurants are still trying to find ways to keep their employees paid and from closing for good, the hospitality industry is finding ways to help those in need and those on the frontline.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, government mandated closures and restrictions have forced many businesses to temporarily close and/or layoff their teams in the hopes of surviving in the long run. The industry, individuals and communities are now taking matters into their own hands to provide support and funds for those in need.

Many are mobilizing to find solutions and get aid for those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in the hospitality industry, including those who have created petitions to allow the industry's voices to be heard as a powerful collective.
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The restaurant industry not only connects people but also many businesses, beyond restaurants themselves, making the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic exponential and also detrimental to the businesses providing services to restaurants. Fortunately, this industry is sticking together and coming up with creative solutions. Tech vendors, specifically, are waiving, deferring or reducing fees and offering new tools in the hopes of keeping businesses open as many restaurants pivot to delivery and takeout during the government shut downs of their dining rooms.
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