Among the job losses, and fear of COVID, some extraordinary locals have galvanised the community into generous acts of compassion and support.
Mayor Karen Williams said kindness was on show across the city, with many examples being tagged on social media as part of council's Redlands Coast Kindness - #RCKindness - campaign.
"This pandemic has really brought out the best in our community and I have been blown away by how local residents and businesses have banded together to support their fellow Redlanders," Cr Williams said.
"The spirit ... is particularly apparent at Zyka's Kitchen - a cafe in Cleveland - and on dinner tables all around our city."
Cafe owner and chef Steve Zyka said it began when the impacts of COVID-19 started to be felt.
"Many of our regulars - people I had gotten to know over long periods of time - were coming into Zyka's really upset and uncertain about what the future may hold for them," he said.
"A lot of people needed to close their businesses or had lost their jobs and didn't know what their future held.
"I found it very confronting. It reminded me of times when my own parents were doing it tough during my childhood, so I decided to offer meals to families who might be having a tough time."
Steve started cooking packaged community meals to support those in need of not only food, but comfort and reassurance, and an amazing thing happened - the community joined in.
"When people heard what I was doing they started asking what they could do," Steve said. "Many wanted to donate money but I asked if they could supply produce instead, as $300 can buy 30 meals whereas $6.90 of pumpkins can produce 50 meals.
"Long before COVID-19, one of our regular suppliers, Daryl Pattemore from Pattemore Meats, has always been the first to contact us with ... support."
When distribution became an issue, Steve asked those who offered help to nominate families who could benefit.
"Darren Cole from Raine & Horne Cleveland next door is now coordinating distribution, using a growing database and an army of helpers to deliver the meals," he said. "Night Ninjas and Love and Hope Redlands, along with other community and church groups, are important members of that army.
"...I'm asking everyone to support their local businesses as they start the gradual process of reopening."
If you have seen an act of kindness enter the council competition to win a $50 voucher. Tell council by sharing a photo or video on social media (use #RCKindness), or emailing a 25-word or less description of their act to kindness@redland.qld.gov.au
