Local everyday

It starts at home!

I've mentioned shopping local before but I found myself taking it to the next level in recent months where I go to a small and/or locally based business at least once a day; sometimes three.  Even when I buy a lot of things that the boring big box could have for a bit less, I know more than half of what I've spent is recycled into the community.  Whether you're in a small town or big city much of the industrialised world will make this possible somehow.  When certain holidays come around one may tend to run to the big boys but the indie can offer goods the other place might not.  This may be the best grassroots campaign I've come up with in a long time.  I didn't exactly plan to do this.  I noticed a pattern so I went along with it and more.
One reason this is important to me is because many small businesses in the past whether near me or on the road that I've been to have closed their doors either because no one seemed to care or the economy did them in.  It's a right shame to let that happen but we can be part of the solution if we change out choices at times.  Doesn't mean only shop local as that's not always an option.  Economic reform like charity begins at home. Also the little guy can be more convenient than some faceless corporation much of the time.
Next time you have to shop, eat out or order takeaway be sure to see if there is an alternative to the chains in your area.  Every penny spent makes a difference in the community.