7 Ways to Thank Frontline Workers

You can give back by honoring the workers on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic. Whether it’s stocking grocery store shelves, delivering essential supplies, or keeping hospital hallways clean and sanitary, we depend on everyday heroes to keep us going in uncertain times like these. Here are a few ways that you can express your appreciation to those on the front lines:

1. Donate a meal. Meal donations can be a great way to thank hospital workers as well as janitors, EMTs, police officers, firefighters and grocery clerks, giving stressed essential workers the chance to relax with their coworkers. If you are thinking about donating a meal, be sure to coordinate with the location so your delivery can be done efficiently and safely. This is also a great way to support local restaurants, many of which are already offering special deals to essential workers. Visit Grand Rapids has a list of restaurants open for delivery.
2. Make a sign for your window or front yard. Make someone’s commute to work brighter by posting a sign in your window or front yard telling frontline workers how much they mean to our community. This is a great opportunity for kids to get creative!
3. Be kind. Essential workers who are keeping grocery, convenience and pharmacy stores open see large groups of people every day. When you must shop at one of these stores, be respectful of the people working there. Say thank you, wear a protective mask, keep your distance from employees, and be kind to team members and other customers. These small acts can go a long way in helping workers feel appreciated and safer at their jobs.
4. Share a message on social media. As we all keep our physical distance, connecting online has become even more important. Using social media is a great way to thank frontline workers. You can tag people you know or send a general message using the hashtags #FrontlineLove, #FrontlineHeroes, #COVIDHeroes or #InThisTogether.
5. Leave items for delivery workers. Delivery workers are putting in long hours and many find it hard to get to the store. Help them by leaving items such as water bottles, hand sanitizer, snacks, and other essentials that will get them through their day. Remember to sanitize the items as best as you can and leave instructions so the delivery people do the same.
6. Be an advocate. Show frontline workers you appreciate their work by helping them get the support they need. During this time of uncertainty and economic crisis, many people, including those still working, need a boost to make ends meet. Vital services like 211, the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, and SNAP can provide relief for frontline workers – and others – in need. You can ask your representative to increase funding for these services. Use this form to email your member of Congress.
7. Stay at home. The most important thing you can do to thank frontline workers is to stay home. When we all stay home, we limit the spread of COVID-19. Take care to limit outings to essential trips only. When outside, use social distancing to stay at least six feet away from others.

Even though we are apart, we can still be united. Let’s show frontline workers that we are in this together!