By continuing (or even upping) your company's paid outreach efforts during an economic downturn, you are staying "top of mind" and adding positivity to your customers' lives despite the negative news cycle, thus amplifying your organization's resilience and dedication to its quality and values — among other things.
Here's a full breakdown of the continuous benefits (backed by studies) of adverting and marketing during a recession, as well as what you can do specifically (costly and "free" things) in this direction.