Coronavirus Supply Sources When your Grocery is Cleaned Out

This post is by Bernie Carr, apartmentprepper.com

Since the panic buying due to COVID-19 fears started a few weeks ago, many grocery store shelves continue to be empty. During my last visit to the store, I found many sections have been restocked, but some shelves such as canned food, soups, toilet paper and antibacterial cleansers continued to be unavailable.

Alternative supply sources

Gas station convenience stores

If you are completely out and you really need some items, check out the gas station convenience store. You can often buy a few select canned foods, fresh fruit, snacks, soda, water, tissues, mini first aid kits, pain relievers and even toilet paper. I realize the items may be priced higher than grocery stores, but if supplies are nowhere to be found, it is better to have something than none at all.

Office supply stores

Besides office equipment and supplies, office supply stores often carry bottled water, cleaning supplies, antibacterial wipes and gel, various snacks such as nuts, crackers etc.

Home and garden stores

Home and garden or hardware stores carry cleaners, paper products such as paper towels (some even carry toilet paper), personal protective equipment. You can also buy a garden sprayer that can be a toilet paper substitute.

LDS Home Storage

LDS Home Stores are run by the Church of the Latter Day Saints. There are stores in many cities across the U.S. They are non-profit and offer excellent prices on items such as flour, sugar, salt, yeast, drink mixes, etc. They even teach people how to pack foods for long term storage. You do not have to belong to the church to shop and learn; however, it is best to call ahead, especially in these times of social distancing and shelter-in-place. For a list of locations, visit the LDS Home Storage site.

Ethnic groceries

If you live in a big city, it is likely you’ll have a wide variety of ethnic grocery stores. Don’t be intimated if you see foreign language signs – they usually have labels in English as well.

Online stores

Since we are trying our best to continue social distancing, ordering online is the most convenient way to get your supplies. I have been ordering from a variety of online stores including:

Amazon

Walmart.com

Chewy’s Pet Supplies

Walgreens

Eventually, grocery stores will re-stock and shelves will be back to normal. In the meantime, the above sources may help you get your much needed supplies.

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(Full disclosure: This article has affiliate links. This means that if you purchase via a link, I may receive a small percentage. This doesn’t cost you anything at all but helps out the blog. Of course, it is always your choice if you want to click through any of my links.)