There are a lot of different ways to #SupportSeward during these unprecedented times, whether you live in town, visit every summer or have been dreaming of a trip, you can help Seward.
Follow the Seward Chamber of Commerce on Facebook for up-to-date #SupportSeward programs and participating businesses and to share the ways you're showing that you #SupportSeward.
Decorate your Windows
While families across the nation are forced to stay home from work and school due to COVID-19 concerns, communities are finding small ways to connect with their neighbors and show solidarity. One way you can show support and spread positivity is through decorating your windows with an uplifting message or fun designs. Get creative with it!
Join 'Neighbors helping Neighbors'
Neighbors Helping Neighbors is a community network to help better connect our community, by sharing our resources and skills with those who need aid. If you need help with anything or would like to volunteer yourself, please follow this link and complete the form to be added to our network.
Complete the 2020 Census Online
Responding to the Census is one important way to support your community, wherever you are. This guarantees that our communities will get funding for public health, hospitals, emergency response, public safety, and economic development through 2030. Please take a minute to respond to the Census here.
Shop Local
For any birthdays, anniversaries or special events coming up, keep it local and support Seward businesses. Many retail stores and other small businesses have had to close their storefront due to COVID-19 but are still offering ways to buy their products. Check the Seward - Open for Business Google Sheet or reach out to the business directly to see how they are operating at this time. Most businesses offer a gift card option as well!
Leave a BIG tip
Show some love to local restaurant employees and baristas by leaving a generous tip— they are working hard to take care of customers and follow safety protocols at this time.
Plant a garden, enjoy a garden
Springtime is the perfect time to get your home garden started. 'Like' the Facebook page for Seward Community Garden by the Bay to see some some excellent local resources or find out how you can participate in the Community Garden. If you are new to gardening or needing tips on seed starting, transplanting and gardening in Seward's climate you can view the archived video of the April 14th Seed Starting Workshop.
Participate in local Facebook Live events
Now is a great time to show support by participating in local Facebook Live events, or tuning into workshops and zoom meetings being offered by local businesses and agencies. Follow the Seward Chamber of Commerce on Facebook and Instagram to see upcoming events being offered in the community.
Help a child with homework via Zoom
Many families are struggling to navigate schooling from home, especially if parents are still working. Children are having to adjust to a completely new way of learning, and may be having a hard time without in-person instruction. If you have any kids in your life that may need support, reach out to their parents and see if you can be helpful in anyway, like helping them with homework over the phone or over a Zoom call.
Buy or redeem a suspended meal program:
This system of "paying it forward" allows those who are able, to buy food and drinks for those needing assistance while also supporting our small businesses.
Here's how it works: A customer with the means to help out a restaurant or coffee house can call in a takeout order and add a suspended meal or coffee. They pay for both, but only pickup their meal. The business will then "suspend" the other meal/coffee until someone in need calls them to see what, if any, food or drink they might have "suspended". If the business has something suspended, the person can pick it up for free, since it was already paid for by someone else.
In this way, community members who are fortunate enough to have a little extra can help support their local businesses, as well as their neighbors who are suffering, and locals who need a little help have one more resource at their disposal.
Volunteer delivering meals for the Senior Center
Take care of your elderly neighbors by volunteering with Seward Senior Center Emergency Home Delivery, bringing nutritious food to seniors in need every day. Call (907) 224-5604 if you can help.
Socialize with friends outside at a safe distance
Get up and out by practicing social distancing outdoors. There is plenty of room outdoors to stay six feet apart from each other!
Facetime or Zoom with friends & family
Reach out to family and friends you are missing with a Facetime or Zoom call. Don't let quarantine ruin birthday parties, baby showers, and special events.. find a way to celebrate with loved ones from afar!
Leave a good review!
Did you visit some of our wonderful local businesses when you were in Seward? Now is a great time to go back and leave some 5-star reviews for the people who made your trip so special.
Call ahead and order to-go
Support our local businesses by ordering take-out from your favorite restaurants! See the Seward - Open for Business Google Sheet for hours and info or check the businesses social media/website for hours and updated menus.
Thank an essential worker
Healthcare workers, first responders, grocery store clerks, gas station attendants, postal employees, delivery drivers and so many more are serving on the frontlines of COVID-19 in essential services. Be sure to thank them for supporting our community!
Run an errand for someone who is safer at home
Elderly, immunocompromised, and pregnant individuals are considered high-risk for COVID-19. If you know members of the community who may need help with groceries, supplies, or other services— let them know if you are willing to run an errand for them so they can stay home.
Donate to the Food Bank
To donate to He Will Provide Food Bank, call (907) 769-1395. Only unopened items are being accepted. You can also support the local food bank by donating to the Providence Alaska Foundation— they will match the first $50,000 in donations made by April 20th. 100% of your donation will go to the He Will Provide Food Bank here in Seward. Click here to donate.
Clean up trash around town
Although the "Super Saturday" clean up event was cancelled due to COVID-19, you can still do your part by adopting an area to clean up around town. Feel free to pick up yellow bags outside the Seward Chamber of Commerce to use in your clean up.
Support the Alaska SeaLife Center
Watch some of our favorite locals on Nat Geo Wild's newest show Alaska Animal Rescue! You can also join the Alaska SeaLife Center for daily telaquarium lessons and videos.
