Adapting has been the key word for businesses throughout New Jersey and the world as the effects of the coronavirus still impact everyday life.

Even businesses deemed essential, such as restaurants and food banks, are struggling to keep up as the statewide shutdown has reached a month and looks to extend well into May.

Those non-essential businesses, especially, are in dire financial need as they struggle to stay open.

How can you play your part and help out? Check out some of the ideas and suggestions.

Check out local chambers of commerce

Chambers of commerce and other local business organizations are great place to start if you’re looking to support local businesses. The Chamber of Commerce for Southern New Jersey has a long list of companies still offering their services.

Future, BOGO deals

Some businesses are offering deals to entice customers while the wait to reopen continues.

In Rutherford, for example, Center Cinemas movie theater is offering a deal for its movie passes, including five free when you purchase 10 or two free for the price of five.

Pay in advance

When businesses reopen, the one that could be most needed? Barbers, hair and nail salons. There’s no way for those businesses and employees to earn money at this time but there are several salons that are still able to purchase discounted services once they’re able to reopen.

That’s the plan for All Styling Studio in Denville, which is also offering hair tutorials on social media and selling color kits and other products online to go along with appointments.

Gift cards

While restaurants are still serving food via pickup and delivery, they’re still struggling with the loss of income. That’s why many restaurants are offering gift cards with some of those businesses also matching the price to encourage customers to help out.

You can also get gift cards for other various businesses looking for financial support with several places, such as WCTC 1450 The Voice’s Operation: Gift Card, putting together a list of businesses where you can purchase a gift card.

At-home workouts

It’s tough to stay in shape when there’s little motivation to get off the couch. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a good workout in while supporting local gyms in the process.

Many gyms and studios are offering zoom classes to keep members moving through difficult times.

In Union County, Crossfit 908 is currently hosting virtual workouts of the day for both adults and children. They even offer cooking classes and cocktail classes for those looking for more than just a workout.

For those in need of a solid workout or just a mental breather, Upcycle in Collingswood is offering daily classes for cycling, yoga, barre and meditation for a variety of options.

Online shopping

While many will look to retail therapy through Amazon and other big-time delivery services, there’s plenty of local businesses that have switched to online shopping.

Several stores, such as Twisted Ink in Flemington, have opened online stores to continue working as the shutdown continues. In this company’s case, proceeds are also going to other independent businesses that are financially struggling.

Shoptiques has plenty of local options as well for those looking to update their wardrobe.

Hyperlocal food shopping

With grocery stores impacted by an executive order that allows only 50 percent of the building’s capacity to filled at a time, hyperlocal grocery stores provide another option for those in need of food and essential supplies.

Batavia Cafe in Summit has helped switch gears, for example, making deliveries to those in need within a 24-hour window. Fanwood Larder closed its doors to in-person shopping but continues to do business via email orders and deliveries for 15 items or less.

Asprocolas Acres of Millstone Township is offering fruit and vegetable care packages to those in Millstone, Scotch Plains, Linden and the Avenel/Woodbridge area.