These are strange times indeed. But through it all, some amazing local businesses are actively working to inspire and encourage us to be safe and healthy. Here are some super cool things a few of our favorite businesses have done to support the community and fight back against COVID-19.
Huss Brewery
One of the state’s largest family-owned independent brewers is spreading a little bit of “hoppy-ness” during this trying time. As part of their ‘Let H(us)s Serve You campaign,’ they gave away free six-packs of Citrus Path Hazy IPA to employees of hotels, restaurants, and bars; doctors, nurses and medical professionals; and first responders. In all, they donated 50 free six-packs. Nothing says, “Thank you for keeping us safe and healthy” like free beer!
They also made both of their locations available for Grocery + Provisions ordering online. Customers could stop by to pick up basic needs, along with local beer, prepared food, grocery provisions, Huss gear and more.
O.H.S.O. Brewery
This is another local brewery doing good. While the Stay at Home Order was in effect, the brewery remained open in a limited takeout capacity to provide food, beer, hand sanitizer, and puppy treats to customers and friends. Even more impressive, this hot spot closed their doors every day from 3–4 PM to hand out free to-go meals to newly-laid-off staff members. Not only that, but O.H.S.O. took kegging to a whole new level by using their facilities to manufacture 100 gallons of hand sanitizer and deliver it…IN KEGS…to the Banner Hospital system. Team members at the brewery partnered with Two Men and a Truck to deliver the hand sanitizer where it was needed most. Recipients included Gila River Health Care, Phoenix Law Association, Solterra Management Group and Circle the City.
But why stop there? O.H.S.O. Brewery also supplied (wait for it) toilet paper! For over two weeks, 200 purchases of $10 or more at OHSO Arcadia were accompanied by a free roll of toilet paper. Not crappy at all.
And in their spare time, OHSO also released an IPA to raise awareness for suicide and the 1-800-273-8255 National Suicide Prevention Hotline.
Finally, we can’t forget about our furry friends. OHSO Brewery has been holding a drive-through YAPPY HOUR every Tuesday from 3–5 PM for fur babies and parents alike!
Switch Restaurant
Located in the heart of midtown Phoenix, Switch Restaurant and Bar stayed open to not only help Phoenix locals, but homebound seniors. Chef Jason Peterson created a GoFundMe page to defray some of the costs and hand-delivered freshly-made meals to homebound seniors across the Phoenix valley. With #HeadsUpHeartsOut, Chef Peterson changed lives, perspectives, and showed the true meaning of giving back.
St. Mary’s Food Bank
St. Mary’s Food Bank did their part in giving back to Arizona by creating a traveling mobile distribution service. This allowed them to bring food to different parts of the Valley, and offer sanitized drive through food pickup services.
La Bocca Wine Bar & Urban Kitchen
To thank everyone at First Western Trust Bank, La Bocca Wine Bar and Urban Kitchen delivered lunch to the bank’s team while they worked 12-14 hour days helping small businesses during the pandemic. Nothing says “thank you” like an expertly-prepared meal.
Arizona Science Center
What better way to help during a pandemic than by promoting science? Though the Arizona Science Center was temporarily closed, their online resources were anything but. Their website now features a special, “Making Sense of COVID-19” section as well as online learning opportunities (for parents and kids) and Facebook live events with virtual activities and demonstrations. From interactive videos, lesson plans, articles, activities, and daily fun, the learning never stopped. Because right now is the very best time to remain inspired through science!
We’re All in This Together
No one knows how long this pandemic will last. Or if the “new normal” is how we will proceed from here on out. But one thing is certain: We all need to do our part and remain kind through this. Stay healthy out there!
