During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, national businesses and corporations are providing special services to support hospital workers and first responders.  These businesses are offering free meals, discounted services, and donations to the essential workers who have dedicated their time and effort toward aiding Americans affected by the virus.

Starbucks Corporation, an international chain of coffeehouses, is offering a free tall brewed hot or iced coffee to any worker who identifies as a first responder or healthcare worker.  The Starbucks Foundation also donated a total of $500,000 for medical equipment and care packages for frontline workers, according to usatoday.com.

Uber Technologies, an international ride-hailing service, is pledging free meals and discounted rides for over 25,000 first responders.  The company has also formed a $2,000,000 partnership with the healthcare union 119SEIU that provides benefits for over 450,000 healthcare workers.  This partnership will give aid to workers living in New York, Massachusetts, Florida, New Jersey, and Maryland, according to usatoday.com.

Mrs. Arlene Wilkerson, aunt of sophomore Leah Allen, is a registered nurse at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, New York, and works with COVID-19 patients on a daily basis.  As a first responder, she appreciates the recent support and recognition that she has received from both her local community and large businesses and corporations.

“I think it’s a very good thing that all the businesses are supporting us because we healthcare workers support their businesses everyday,” Mrs. Wilkerson said.  “Even before [the pandemic] we were the ones who always purchased their goods and used their services.”

Walgreens, an American chain of pharmaceutical stores, is dedicating specific store hours to frontline workers and vulnerable citizens, according to usatoday.com.  The company also provided a 30 percent discount on all Walgreens brand products April 25 for its Frontline Hero Discount Day.

Mrs. Wilkerson expressed her gratitude for all of the recognition and support she has received as a frontline worker from both national businesses, her local community, and above all, her patients.

“[My patients] are the ones who make it the most worthwhile,” said Mrs. Wilkerson.  “They are the most grateful, and to see that appreciation from everybody is what keeps me moving forward.”

Featured Image by Leah Allen ’22