Best Of Patch 2020: Communities Find Way Forward Amid Pandemic

ACROSS AMERICA — The coronavirus pandemic has left a lasting mark on communities in the United States. In the last 10 months, the virus has claimed more than 335,000 lives, devastated small businesses and brought hardship to millions of American families.

Still, many of these businesses and families stared down the pandemic and vowed to conquer it.

In the face of it all, Patch communities across the country showed remarkable strength, resilience and determination to move through and beyond the tragedy and hardship.

Take a look at some of the best stories of how communities are finding their way forward during the coronavirus pandemic:

Coronavirus Inspires Bowie Priest To Offer Drive-Thru Confessions

The Rev. Scott Holmer of Bowie, Maryland, started offering drive-thru confessions to reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus to parishioners.

Vista Teen Surprises Sister With Quarantine Prom

Jared Bender, a senior at Vista Visions Academy, surprised his little sister, Aubree Bender, with a "quarantine prom" at their Vista, California, home.

Coastal Roots Farm Offers Pay-What-You-Can Food

An Encinitas, California-based nonprofit found a way to distribute food through its pay-what-you-can farm stand, pop-up mobile farm stands, and direct donations.

Chatham Business Owner Named A TIME Magazine Hero Of 2020

He started shopping for people who couldn't leave home. Since then, he and his family have made more than 1,000 grocery trips.

Sea Change: ASML In Wilton Is Thriving In The Coronavirus Crisis

For months, priests and pundits have been promising their flocks that they'll "get through this pandemic and be somehow stronger than before." But one Wilton, Connecticut, manufacturer has been walking that walk since March, and there's never been any "somehow" in their calculations.

Florida's Santas, Mrs. Clauses Adapt In The Era Of Coronavirus

Visits with Santa have been a longstanding tradition for many families during the holiday season. But this year, things are different because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Food Network Chef Helps Annapolis Eatery Recover From Coronavirus

A local restaurant hired a chef from the Food Network, hoping his locally sourced ingredients could restore its sales.

St. Pete Bartender Makes Coronavirus Masks Out Of Liquor Bags

A Florida bartender found himself low on funds after bars closed but came up with creative ways to supplement his loss of cash.

'Nana' Fills Teaching Gap For Working Chesco Parents

Pennsylvania grandparents like Patti Emmons of London Grove Township have stepped in when they can, even retiring early to help kids learning at home.