CHICOPEE, Mass. - Lucky Strike Restaurant has been in Chicopee for nearly 75 years. They're working to stay in the community despite financial challenges since the pandemic.

Like many others, Lucky Strike was forced to close during the peak of COVID-19. Since reopening, the restaurant has seen less business and has had to make changes, like closing an hour earlier each day, to stay competitive.

"We run a shorter, tighter staff," said general manager Valerie Thomas. "Food costs are incredibly high and that makes things very hard. We have had to raise our prices and we're probably going to have to raise them again."

The restaurant isn't able to hire more staff due to financial struggles, so Thomas has to work as both the GM and a waitress. She said it's been very challenging having to wear multiple hats throughout the week.

"I do payroll every Monday at 8 a.m.," Thomas said. "I do the schedule every Thursday by 10 a.m. I go through the paperwork as need be and divvy up all the bills and figure out when we're gonna pay things. I speak to all of the vendors on the phone."

Despite the increased workload, Thomas said it's important for her to protect the community staple.

"I grew up in Chicopee," Thomas said. "Lucky Strike is a very important restaurant in the community and I believe it's important to keep the doors running and keep things running smoothly."

Thomas said many small business owners live locally, so investing in businesses goes a long way to support the community.

"Local businesses support local people," Thomas said. "They support your next door neighbor. Somebody that lives two streets away that has three kids that needs grocery money and has to pay their rent. This is a place you work, and when you support a local business, your money goes right back into the community."