Where would we be without the selfless essential workers during the Coronavirus crisis?
From healthcare workers to grocery store employees to delivery workers to public transit drivers and operators—these brave men and women work each day to keep our lives running as smoothly as possible. Here are some simple (and safe) ways to thank them for their sacrifices
1. Heed the rules and regulations
The most important—and respectful—thing you can do is to abide by the rules in place in your area. Most states are still implementing stay-at-home orders that require citizens to stay home except for healthcare appointments, grocery and food pick-ups, or outdoor exercise. Stay up-to-date on your area’s regulations and continue to stay in as much as possible. It has been well-documented that doing this is helping to flatten the curve, which is the greatest help to healthcare workers.
2. Be mindful of your actions
Help essential workers by taking all of your actions into careful consideration. For example:
- When you have to go out, abide by the CDC’s recommendation to wear a mask. You can purchase a washable fabric one from companies like this one who are donating masks and profits to healthcare workers. This will help keep you and those around you safe—again, any small action you can take to potentially help is worth it.
- Call before going to the doctor. If you’re feeling unwell (barring any life-threatening emergencies, of course), call your doctor before dropping in. Many clinics are using video or phone appointments in lieu of in-person procedures. Others are seeing well patients in the mornings and sick patients in the afternoons, so call to check your provider’s procedures.
- Don’t use reusable bags. Though we know that it’s more environmentally friendly to bring your own bags to the grocery store, right now, leave them at home. This will help keep grocery store workers safer.
3. Consider giving and donating
Many hospitals and clinics are still accepting PPE (personal protective equipment) donations. This helpful website tells you what items are needed in your area and how to donate. If you don’t have extra supplies on hand, monetary donations are helpful, too.
Another idea is to give gift cards to the essential workers in your own life. Consider a grocery store, restaurant, or general gift card for your delivery workers, healthcare workers, or sanitation workers. If you decide to go this route, make sure to safely handle the cards.
It’s also important to tip generously right now, if possible. So many people are struggling with finances due to the pandemic’s effects, that every bit helps. If you’re using delivery services for grocery or food drop-offs, be generous and kind to those brave workers.
Donate your time by performing acts of service for the essential workers you know. Consider doing the grocery shopping for an exhausted friend who is a nurse. Or handle the lawn care for your neighbor who is a delivery driver. Since these workers may be handling increased work stress plus limited childcare, time is a valuable commodity for them. If you have some to spare, consider sharing it.
4. Just say it.
Sometimes the simplest option is the best. If you come across essential workers, verbally thank them. A simple thank you can be a major morale booster. If you have children (or just want to get outside), use sidewalk chalk to write encouraging messages or thank you notes to your delivery drivers. Participate in your city’s nightly healthcare shift-change applause. Write thank you messages on posters and place them in your windows.
And when you’re feeling so over this, remember that it’s a privilege to be safe at home while so many risk and sacrifice to help get us through this crisis. If you need any other coronavirus resources, here’s a roundup of some of our best.
