<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber continues working to help businesses during outbreak" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/s6dc4-d72017?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostAs the community struggles to cope with the realities of the response to the COVID-19, the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce is working to make sure residents have access to the latest business information and resources available."We've been working with some of our partnering agencies and get some lists put together for what business are doing," said Sarah Wasinger, Hays chamber president and CEO.One of the earliest lists compiled by the chamber is the current status of the local restaurants.&nbsp;"We are updating resources as they become available," Wasinger said.The chamber has also compiled a list of current banking services."During times of need like these people want to make sure that they know how to access their finances properly and efficiently," Wasinger said.She noted several banks in the area are offering lobby hours by appointment."We will be sharing that information as we get it," she said.They are also working on a list for retailers as they offer different services in response to the outbreak."Our goal is to be out there advocating for all of our chamber members and it doesn't matter if that local traditional or non-traditional," Wasinger said.Wasinger hopes that as the precautions continue that more businesses and residents will use their services."Its more important now than ever that our businesses know that they can reach out to the chamber," she said. "We are here as a resource, for not only for our business but the community at large and whatever it takes, we will think outside of the box and if you can dream it and if you think the chamber can help we want to hear that information and we will be there to share it."While they are working to support businesses, they also are encouraging everyone to work together in the community to make the best of a challenging situation and has seen many already step up to assist others."If you have a way to do something nice, and brighten someone's day," Wasinger said.&nbsp;"I think we could all use a little extra love and happiness right now.""The best thing that we can do is pull together as a community and be there for one another," she said. "Know that if you need help, don't be quiet. We don't want people to suffer in silence."<a href="https://hayschamber.com/news-announcements/covid-19-resources">The resources produced by the Hays chamber can be found on their webpage, hayschamber.com.</a>

Hays chamber works to support community during outbreak