{{unknown}}In the wake of shear uncertainty, one thing is certain of this unprecedented time, we are all here, now, together. Supporting each other here in the now is crucial.

I have been doing my share of online shopping from local businesses lately, including those of friends and family who have virtual shops and boutiques. This week I attended my first virtual Zumba class lead by a former high school classmate, received my first grocery delivery, and place my first order for custom press-on nails. Being required to stay at home has its perks for some, and for others its drawbacks, because life still goes on and for many small and local businesses and their staff life and business go hand-in-hand. A full set of press-on nails may not seem like a necessity in a pandemic, but for a local small business owner, it is well-welcomed support.

Red Red Wine Bar. Photo courtesy of the author.

We can all support local businesses in Annapolis in many ways. Some businesses, like one of my favorites Red Red Wine Bar, are only offering carryout services, while others are only accepting online orders and delivery or are no longer open to the public at all. Many have set up GoFundMe pages or are welcoming donations and virtual tips to support their staff or programs.

Kittens In Cups - Cat Lounge

Kittens in Cups - Cat Lounge. Photo courtesy of the author.

Kittens In Cups Cat Lounge is still dedicated to providing a cozy and safe environment for kittens and cats until forever homes can be found for them all. Want to see some of the good your donations are doing? Tune in for daily live streams via Facebook.

View Their GoFundMe Page

Red Red Wine Bar & DRY 85

Dry 85. Photo courtesy of the author.

Although our favorite wines and cocktails are stuck on the top shelves, we can remember the good times we have had sharing good food, drinks, and laughs in the company of wonderfully accommodating staff. Along with their GoFundMe page for displaced staff, Red Red Wine Bar and Dry 85 released Limited Edition "Stronger Together - Even From a Distance" t-shirts. Half of the sale price will go to supporting their staff. You can find out more on their Facebook page.

View Their GoFundMe Page

Orangetheory Fitness Annapolis

Orange Theroy Fitness. Photo courtesy of the author.

If anyone knows a thing or two about support it is the Orangetheory Fitness staff. Their main agenda is supporting healthy habits, lifestyles, and members. You can show support by donating to the Orangetheory GoFundMe page and by joining their #orangetheoryathome challenge. More information about the challenge can be found on their website or social media sites.

View Their GoFundMe Page

Anne Arundel Medical Center

AAMC. Photo courtesy of the author.

The Anne Arundel Medical Center staff is on the front line for all of us working overtime to provide care for our sick. We can give them the gift of love via gift cards as simple thank you's for their hard work and dedication to caring.

View Their GoFundMe Page

If you cannot find a GoFundMe page for your favorite business, and your favorite restaurant does not do carryout - check out their social media feeds on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates on how you can offer your support. In addition, Downtown Annapolis Partnership has just launched the website #AnnapolisStrong, a huge resource for ways to help support local businesses. Check it out HERE.