The coronavirus pandemic is forcing many local businesses to shut down, leaving their owners with mounting obligations and a desperate search for ways to survive, writes Richard Gaw for the Chester County Press.

Chris Thompson – owner of Philter, a coffee shop in Kennett Square – had to lay off all of his employees after he decided to close on March 15.

Trying to secure at least some revenue, he is now using Philter as a distribution center and making deliveries of available retail items, including coffee beans, tea, and craft chocolates.

Other local eateries have also taken advantage of the fact that restaurants are allowed to stay open for take-out.

In recent weeks, Jack Mavraj, co-owner of La Verona in Kennett Square, has set up a take-out table at the front of the restaurant. Over the phone, customers can order their food, which is then made available for an easy and socially distant pickup in sanitized packaging.

Other businesses are also finding new ways of generating some revenue. Lexa Chernin and Elizabeth Gehrt of Yoga Secrets in Kennett Square, for example, are now offering virtual classrooms on Zoom.

Read more in the Chester County Press here.

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