“Dear PoPville,

Can we get a running list of local businesses (I’m thinking restaurants and bars, but could be anything else that comes to mind) that offer gift cards / certificates for sale? That could be a way for us to provide at least a bit of support to small businesses and their employees as they struggle through this situation.

Thanks– and stay safe out there.”

Please add spots you run across in the comments – THANK YOU to all who’ve written.


From a press release:

“In response to the increasing risk of the COVID-19 coronavirus and to help encourage social distancing to stop its spread, Chef José Andrés and ThinkFoodGroup announced they will temporarily close all of their restaurants in the Washington, D.C., area and New York City as of today, March 15, and repurpose most of them as “community kitchens” with affordable plates of the day available for takeout purchase.

Said TFG Co-Founder Jose Andres, “We are in a serious global emergency and people need to take every precaution, including staying home as much as possible.  However, we also want to help provide food for those who want it in a safe manner, so we feel these community kitchens can help during this challenging time.  And those who cannot afford to pay we will welcome as well.”

The community kitchens will operate out of the restaurants’ side doors with a limited number of volunteers from 12 – 5 pm daily beginning Tuesday, March 17, offering only takeout service.  All restaurant employees will be provided with paid leave and current health benefits for at least the first two weeks.

Washington DC Metropolitan Area (more…)


“Dear PoPville,

I know a lot of readers go to WSC. I haven’t heard any communication from them about cleaning/shutting down/pausing memberships, etc. What gives?

Seems like almost every other gym/work out studio has paused things and/or offered online programming.”

From a Urban Adventures Companies press release:

“Update on VIDA Fitness, SweatBox, Bang Salon, Aura spa

The Urban Adventures Companies will be closed March 16th until March 31st in order to help our employees, members, and clients stay healthy and safe.

We have been closely tracking the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in hopes that we could remain open to our members and clients during this uncertain time. All of us at Urban Adventures come to work every day deeply committed to the health and wellbeing of our stakeholders. This town is our home, and you are our family. It is for these reasons that we have made the very difficult decision to close all of our businesses effective March 16th through March 31st. (more…)



Photo by flickr user Dave Dugdale

Thanks to all who’ve passed on: “Someone created a resource for finding the names and venmo/paypal information for service industry workers in order to toss some cash their way. Its operating as a virtual tip jar and is a great way for folks to help their favorite server/bartender/etc stay afloat while businesses are experiencing mandated reduced business or closures. The list is supposedly being updated daily at noon.”



Photo by PoPville flickr user Eric P.

From Howard U:

“Dear Howard University Community,

I am writing to inform you of a need to escalate the university’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. A guest who attended the Howard University Charter Day Dinner has tested positive for COVID-19 (coronavirus). Out of an abundance of caution, we are asking all March 7 dinner participants to monitor and report to your doctor if you begin exhibiting flu-like symptoms. The DC Department of Health is investigating the case, locating and counseling relevant contacts in accordance with the latest national guidance and protocols. We are working closely with the department and have been advised that the chances of contracting the virus are low.

The individual has complied with DC Department of Health’s guidance to remain self-isolated. Our direct concern is the recovery and well-being of the affected individual and their loved ones. We will continue to prioritize the most vulnerable among us and do everything we can to safeguard the health and wellness of our university staff, students and surrounding communities.

We have consulted with medical and public-health experts and regrettably, our University leadership has arrived at the conclusion that a return to campus for face-to face instruction will not be possible for the Spring, 2020 semester. To be clear, we are taking the following steps: (more…)


View More Stories