By Steven Froias

Contributing Writer

During this unprecedented moment in time, the Love The Ave and North End New Bedford team needs you to help us support all the people, places and groups which flavor our city. 

As we enter a new phase of this war against COVID-19, it’s clear we need to plan for the long haul. Last night, we all learned that stay-at-home guidance for the entire nation has been extended until April 30. 

Essential persons and places of business are, however, still working hard and providing support and sustenance during this time. While we have endeavored to share whatever information we can gleam through our social media channel, our Facebook page found here, it’s clear there is much more we can effectively communicate with your help. 

Many small businesses such as the terrific restaurants which form the economic backbone of the North End and which distinguish the commercial corridor we all love, Acushnet Avenue, are open for take-out and/or delivery. They are taking all necessary safety precautions while they try their best to maintain themselves as going concerns for the sake of our community, their employees, and the people who depend on them for a bit of solace at this difficult time. 

Here’s how you can help: If you visit spots like Endzone, Antonio’s, Nuno’s, David’s, The Boat or other North End eateries, please share with a picture or a thought on your own social media with the hashtags #LoveTheAve and #NorthEndNB. 

We’ll keep our eye out for your contributions and share them with our followers. This multiplier effect will help ensure we’re letting as many people as possible about what’s available at these beloved spots in New Bedford.

Also, if you learn of other community resources that you feel should be shared, please use the same hashtags. A good example would be the free lunches Alma del Mar charter school has been distributing to children since the crisis began. We want to share information like that so as many folks as necessary can benefit from these amazing civic initiatives. 

We will all get through this together – and we want to help make sure as much of our Love The Ave community is as whole as possible when the storm passes. 

We will meet, mingle and #LoveTheAve together again soon – stronger and more united to preserve the unique neighborhoods here which distinguish the City of New Bedford.

Until then, stay safe.