There are a number local stores that will be open on Black Friday and on Small Business Saturday. Many local businesses are struggling due to the lockdowns. (Photo by Tyler Murphy)

NORWICH – The Downtown Norwich Merchants Association is recommending that people shop locally to help small businesses survive for another year.

According to Downtown Norwich Merchants Association President Jill Kraft, there are a number of great local stores that will be open on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, and they could use their community’s help.

“This is definitely a time of year that can make it or break it for a small business,” said Kraft. “There are so many amazing things that people can get locally that they don’t know about, so I think now might be a good time to check out the businesses in your area before shopping online.”

Kraft said the merchants association is hosting a raffle to help support local businesses, and all individuals have to do is visit one of more than 20 local businesses and fill out a raffle card. She said there is no purchase necessary to win, and that hopefully the raffle will inspire people to go into some stores they haven’t visited in awhile.