In many parts of the country, quarantined residents cheer for essential workers such as doctors, nurses, and first responders, to thank them for their service. From hospitals to the grocery stores, there are essential workers out there every day during the coronavirus pandemic. Essential workers such as grocery store employees are constantly restocking toilet paper, poultry, produce, and canned goods as fast as the items fly off the shelves.
These workers disinfect carts, keypads, handles, and checkout counters as hundreds of people weave around them, sometimes working weary hours behind clear plastic barriers installed at checkout counters.
They aren’t doctors, nurses, or home health aides, yet they are earnest and sometimes praised for their work. Their dedication has been recognized by singer Adele, Pope Francis, former U.S. President Barack Obama, and countless individuals on social media.
For Jordan Dennis, being an essential worker right now means masking up and taking the uttermost health precautions to be a helping hand.
“I feel happy to contribute my services to the cause,” said Publix employee Dennis. “The customers are getting the supplies they need and that is what always makes me happy.”
Dennis, who has been a Publix employee for 5 years, is still on the job. But the stress of the coronavirus is taking a toll as workers risk exposure to the virus. Dennis’ work hours have been shortened because of decreased customer activity. However, it’s a little bit more elbow grease than he’s used to.
“We now need more time to restock our shelves and clean everything every hour,” said Dennis.
According to Dennis, cleaning products such as Lysol, Clorox, and wipes are the first to go. Dennis hasn’t seen hand-sanitizer last on shelves for more than a day. But during these uncertain times, Dennis remains grateful.
Since April, Publix initiatives have supported farmers and are helping to feed those in need. The Publix Company announced it had purchased over one million pounds of fruits and vegetables to donate to the organization ‘Feeding America’ member food banks, which includes ‘Feeding South Florida.’
The non-profit organization estimates over 17 million people will experience food shortage from the pandemic, with many looking towards ‘Feeding America’ to help feed their families.
“You just hope that you can find the right people to work with — people who can come up with the right solutions to help you make it through. We found that right partner in Publix.” 5 Brothers Produce Senior Sales Associate Thomas Torbert. 5 Brothers Produce is a Florida vegetable farmer and distributor.