Dear Editor,

Thank God that during this novel coronavirus pandemic, a known but unsung national foundation, the corner shop, has remained open in every nook and cranny of the island. It would be great to see coverage by the media on this essential Jamaican service area and their interactions with the “budget presentations” in other spheres.

The corner shop is a safe site for meeting and greeting and buying essentials, be it food or cold and flu tablets. There is no embarrassment to have only $30 to buy a “tie” of baking powder in a plastic bag, or $80 for a “tie” of oil — not a whole bottle, Opposition leader.

Those who are unemployed and elderly have the corner shop as their major source of basic supplies in financially manageable packages. A pound of chicken breast runs at $250 and can serve for more than one person or more than one meal.

Whereas the customers are rejected by the major supermarket chains with their small purchases, the corner shop is there. Many are not even able to pay the bus fare even at concession rates to get to the big chains, but the corner shop is to the rescue “just around the corner”.

Big decisions that affect many families are taken at corner shops, as the real dilemma is the expense of living. Also this overrides any budget debate.

Still, many are very grateful for “gift” baskets from corporate entities, churches and friends, but as soon as they are finished it’s back to the corner shop.

‘igthingupastarm

writingupastorm@yahoo.com