With tens of millions of Americans expected to travel for Thanksgiving next week despite spiking COVID-19 infection numbers nationwide, the U.S. Travel Association released an update to its guidance for healthy and safe travel—along with a plea for everyone to closely heed recommended best practices if traveling.  This comes in light of the relatively new challenge of “pandemic fatigue”—which is reportedly causing many Americans to lower their guard against the coronavirus because they are tired after eight long months of evolving restrictions and lifestyle adjustments.

Costa Mesa‘s community of large and small businesses are trying to make a difference to their fellow residents. Together, they have donated thousands of pounds of food, helped feed families that have been laid off or furloughed during this health crisis and are raising funds to support and give back to frontline workers in healthcare and law enforcement while getting through the COVID-19 crisis together. With many businesses having to shutter during this time, others are doing whatever they can to stay in business, raise funds and help each other. Following are a few Costa Mesa stories of businesses giving back, and locals helping locals.