It’s been proven time and again: Money spent in the community STAYS in the community. When you frequent a local business, the money you spend there goes in the pockets of local business owners and employees — people with ties to the neighbourhood. It gets put back into the community when workers buy lunch or operators purchase business needs nearby. And the cycle goes on. Shopping local helps build a healthy community economy, which attracts more business to the area.

Is there one night a week you just don’t feel like cooking? Or maybe it’s once every couple weeks, or even once a month. Plan a treat night with whatever frequency works for your budget. Maybe it’s your favourite go-to comfort food, or maybe you want to try something new every time. Either way, go with dine-in or pickup options if you can, rather than third-party delivery services. Every bit of the bill that goes directly to the restaurant helps!

So you have some idea about the kind of stuff your friends and loved ones are into, but not EXACTLY what they have, want, or need. You know who can help? Friendly, knowledgeable staff! Purchasing gift cards from local businesses is SUPER helpful during challenging times. You’re not just giving money — you’re giving an EXPERIENCE, whether it’s giving your spouse an excuse to visit their favourite shop, or you’re pointing a friend at someplace they’ve never been. Shops always appreciate more people coming through the door!

You can collect Young Giant Big Bucks coupons, featuring SPR’s fun and friendly mascot, at participating merchants and special SPR events. Each one is good for $3 off a $10 purchase, and merchants are fully refunded their value by the SPR Business Association. Check out the list of participating merchants.

Be a champion for your community! Visit stonyplainroad.com for links to our socials (at the top) and to sign up for our newsletter (at the bottom). You’ll be the first to know about upcoming events and neighbourhood happenings, and can share the news on your favourite platforms. If you have a great experience at an SPR business, give them a positive review on their social page or Google. Great word-of-mouth is good for business!