The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting the way we work, live and our local economy. Our friends and business partners will be experiencing unplanned staff shortages, supply uncertainty and financial difficulties.

We implore each of you to be patient, be courteous and be supportive. In the coming weeks, we'll need to find new ways to work together and support each other as a community.

The Saugeen Shores Chamber of Commerce (SSCC) is staying abreast of developing provincial and federal government programs that may offset some
of the burden placed on businesses. We will continue to work with our partners the Canadian Chamber, Ontario Chamber and our BIAs to develop best practices and brainstorm ideas that will help our members and business community. What we learn will be shared with you.

What can Chamber member businesses do right now? Stay up to date with changing Federal and Provincial policies. Where possible, avoid asking for refunds on tickets and sponsorships, allow some forgiveness on payment due dates, avoid cancelling memberships and subscriptions, continue to donate to charities and sponsor future events, advertise and promote your business as usual, and offer online solutions and home delivery services. Whatever you can do to keep cash flowing through your business and our community.

Although Chamber-branded events have been postponed, the team at the SSCC is committed to supporting the business community and maintaining Saugeen Shores as a great place to do business. We know you'll need the support of your network and your Chamber of Commerce more than ever before; there really is strength in numbers. That is why we are giving our members a grace period on their membership and will make arrangements for payment plans upon request. Tell us what you need from your Chamber team and we’ll work with you in order to help your business recover and grow.

On behalf of the Saugeen Shores Chamber of Commerce staff and Board of Directors, please take care of your teams, your volunteers. Take care of yourselves and your families. And please know that the Saugeen Shores Chamber of Commerce is standing right here with you as your biggest champion. We’re in this together!

Kimberley Inniss-Petersen, Executive Director
Steve Harris, President, Board of Directors