Local eatery Mamma’s Shack the latest casualty of coronavirus

Written By ALYSSA PARKHILL

Businesses whether local, provincial or international, have been severely impacted because of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Many have been forced to close their doors to flatten the curve and stop the spread, for months. Many, unfortunately, haven't reopened. 

All non-essential businesses in Ontario were instructed to close on March 23, to further contain the spread of COVID-19. Many business owners willingly understand, knowing the severe measures. But all weren't aware of how long they were to be closed. 

One local restaurant in Caledon Village closed their doors permanently a couple of weeks ago because of the severe impacts to their business. 

Mamma's Shack, previously located on Charleston Road, announced on July 28, that they were unable to remain open due to the hardships brought upon the business because of COVID-19.

“We are very sorry to share the news that we have had to close our doors permanently. We would like to thank each and every one of you that have supported us over the last 2 years,” read the Facebook post. “This journey and experience is one we will never forget.”

The community shared their thoughts and reminiscing comments, remembering all their good times they had at the popular restaurant, commenting about how sad they are to see Mamma's Shack go. 

Mamma's Shack was known for its quick and cheerful service, delicious breakfast food and great prices. 

The restaurant was run and owned by Angela Edwards Lott and her family.

“Unfortunately, with the current struggles in the world we just couldn't hang on any longer. We wish you all good health and again,” said the post. 

Many other businesses have reported to be struggling because of the pandemic, and more permanent closures across the GTA are likely. 

Some of these include restaurants, bars, bakery, and even some grocery stores. 

Included are Crocodile Rock Bar in Toronto, popular and long-standing pizza restaurant, Vesuvio Pizza closed down due to COVID-19 hardships, and Il Gatto Nero shut down after 61 years in business. 

Orangeville Mediterranean restaurant Eat Like Sabby, closed down due to the impacts the pandemic back in May. 

On top of the smaller local businesses, bigger companies have even had to resort to closing some stores for relief in their financial situations. 

Some of these include Victoria's Secret, Old Navy, Aldo, Starbucks, Bed Bath and Beyond to only name a few. 

The province of Ontario has committed more than $900 million to support small businesses across the province, which was recently extended on July 31. 

“Our government has promised to be there to support people and jobs since the pandemic first hit our province,” said Rod Phillips, Minister of Finance in the news release. “By extending support for commercial rent at the same time most of the province is in stage three, the province of Ontario is helping more businesses get through this challenging period, so they have an opportunity to recover and welcome back their customers.”

The Town of Caledon have stepped up to help small businesses in Caledon, as they understand the challenges that the businesses are facing. 

The Economic Development staff continue to support businesses with any advice or questions through phone, email and online sources. They created online programs such as their ‘Shop Local' to help promotion of the businesses, as well as an online map showcasing who is still open.

Property taxes payments were also deferred to help those dealing with financial hardships.

“The pandemic has had a huge impact on the local economy,” said Mayor Allan Thompson. “But I've been amazed at how this community has dug deep to support our local businesses. And in the face of enormous challenges local business owners and entrepreneurs have shown real grit and creativity to keep serving their customers. With fewer cases of COVID-19 I'm optimistic that the recovery is going to pick up steam and we'll get back to “the new normal” soon!”  

For more information on support for small local businesses, please visit Caledon.ca.