By: Julia Mulry
(April 28, 2020) - Baltimore, known for its close-knit community feel and exemplary cuisine, has taken unprecedented actions to support local businesses and workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many industries are facing mass lay-offs, but the hospitality industry may be amongst the hardest hit, forced to shutter due to the outbreak.
“We were out to eat in Fells Point the day the restaurants closed in Baltimore,” said Kaela Milewski, a college student living in the northern Mount Washington area of the city. "Then, all the sudden they were locking the doors."
Beginning on March 23, non-essential business was forced to close in Maryland, leaving restaurants and bars to grapple with their new reality.
With delivery and carry-out left as the only option, that day meant unemployment for thousands in the small city. However, the community came together, creating relief funds and virtual tip jars to support their favorite restaurant and bar workers.
Local powerhouses such as Natty Boh created t-shirt sales with all profits benefiting local workers. McCormick & Co. donated $100,000 to restaurant relief.
"It's amazing to see. As someone new to Baltimore, I am consistently impressed with the support throughout the city"
Jen Spillane, another college student living in the city, was pleasantly surprised by the immediate ways she could support her favorite local spots.
"Between ordering apparel, sending a Venmo to bartendars and getting take-out, I am happy to see how I could continue to support and shop local."
While the governor's orders for restaurants and bars to remain take-out and delivery only remain in place, there is no shortage of love for the hospitality industry in Baltimore.
"It's a tough time, no doubt. But there's no place I'd rather be supporting right now than Charm City," said Spillane.
