By JULIE CUNNINGHAM
Photo provided by Scrafty Custom Signs
(Athol, MA) Scafty Custom Signs in Athol, like many small businesses, is weathering the challenges of the COVID-19 shut down. Stephanie Anne Cook, owner of the small shop on Main Street, has been able to stay afloat with some sacrifices and community support.
”I have started making free local deliveries to keep business going,” said Cook.
So far, Cook has been able to keep up with her rent and her utilities at the shop, but she said she hasn’t received as much financial support from programs like the Payment Protection Plan as other larger businesses.
“We may not house a large number of employees, but we still help our small community’s economy and boost town morale,” said Cook.
Cook fears that her businesses will still suffer even after she is allowed to reopen. Social distancing measures will be in place to keep customers and workers safe, but the bulk of her businesses relies on parties, something she thinks she won’t be able to have again for a long time. Cook will be limiting the amount of customers in the store at one time who are making signs, to keep social distancing measures in place.
“The most challenging thing has been missing the community and fellowship I so much loved with my customers,” said Cook.
Today, Governor Chralie Baker will announce the first phase of the four phase reopening plan, but it is not clear how this will impact small businesses like Scarfty or if businesses of this nature will be on the first or second round of reopening in Massachusetts.