Best of Calgary is a celebration of the people, places and voices that make Calgary an amazing place to live and call home.

Written by: Kelsey Woods

This week is all about our local businesses and facilities who have stepped up to serve their community. Times are tough in Calgary right now, there’s no doubt about that, but there are certain individuals, groups, owners and volunteers who are making a difference in the lives of those who need it. We wanted to personally give a shout out to these six small businesses and facilities, whether they’re showing the love or in need of our support.

London Drugs

If you haven’t heard the news yet, London Drugs is swooping in to help save small local businesses during this time of need. They will not only be clearing shelf space in their stores, but offering it up to local businesses so that they are able to sell their goods while most stores remain temporarily closed. “As a 75-year-old Canadian owned and operated company, we have always supported fellow Canadian businesses and now is the time more than ever, to come together,” says Clint Mahlman, president and COO of London Drugs. If you or someone you know would like to apply for a space in your local London Drugs, fill out an application here.

Diva Salon & Spa

A local staple in Calgary, Diva Salon and Spa is recognized as many Calgarians’ hair haven, with dedicated stylists making each customer feel comfortable and confident. With seven locations spread across the city, they are certainly hurting during this time as their doors have been temporarily closed since the outbreak and will remain closed until at least June 1. I can imagine most of us could use a trim, if not a full-blown quarantine make-over, so let’s show these Diva salons and our favourite local stylists some love when it’s their turn to reopen.

Alberta Garment

Alberta Garment is an apparel manufacturer located here in Calgary that specializes in flame-resistant, safety clothing. During COVID-19, this company is now manufacturing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and masks to help wherever they can. On their website, Alberta Garment has politely requested that all production inquiries be sent to sales@albertagarment.com due to the urgent medical PPE production needs across Canada. We thank you for your hard work and perseverance in providing our community with the necessary supplies.

Stephen and Jo Lowden, Pig and Duke Pub

Prior to COVID-19, both Pig and Duke locations were compromised in January when pipes burst during a cold snap and caused water mains to break across the city as well as immense damage to the restaurants and their contents. Owners Stephen and Jo Lowden knew this would be incredibly hard on their staff, as it would be weeks if not months before they could reopen. Friends in the industry organized a fundraiser to help support the staff since they knew they would be without work during a tough time. When the Pig and Duke pubs reopen, let’s make sure to give them some major Calgary loving.

Dulcina Hospice at St. Marguerite Manor - Covenant Care

The Dulcina Hospice is a 26-bed care facility focused on easing the physical, emotional and spiritual distress that accompanies many people near end of life, using compassion and understanding to celebrate life. During this time, the team at Dulcina continues to care for anyone ages 19-years-old and up at end of life as they normally would so that they can maintain a calm, compassionate environment. The individuals working at this assisted living facility are working above and beyond their abilities, and we commend them for serving our community, no matter the circumstances.

Calgary Distilleries

If they haven’t heard it enough yet, we want to give a loud shout out to our Calgary distilleries for making hand sanitizer in these uncertain times. Burwood, Skunkworks, Last Best Brewing - thank you for pivoting and helping your community when you knew we needed it the most.

If you notice someone going above and beyond for their neighbours or spot a local business who has pivoted and provided for their community during these uncertain times, we want to know! Nominate these local heroes so we can give them a shout out and continue to spread positive news.

Nominate a Local Hero

Kelsey Woods is the Content & Editorial Manager for Best of Calgary.