Grocery stores continue to be an essential service, as more people utilize it for food and other needs with the continuing COVID-19 outbreak.

Hy-Vee Director of Public Relations Christina Gayman says in response to the virus, all stores have glass shields installed at the check-out counters, along with daily sanitizing freezer handles and shopping carts, sanitizing the check-out belts and check-out stands between each customer as ways to protect employees and customers. 

Gayman points out that all part-time and full-time store employees that work between March 16th-April 12th will receive a ten-percent bonus on all of their hours. Additionally, employees that test positive for the virus and/or who are required to self-quarantine by a health official will receive job protective leave. The benefit is for a minimum of two weeks and applies to all employees, regardless of their employment length. Full-time employees and their dependents who utilize the 24-hour telehealth services, including mental health, will have co-pay fees waived and part-time employees will pay a minimal fee per visit with the service. 

Similarly, Fareway has implemented changes as well. Corporate Outreach and Communications Director Emily Toribio tells Raccoon Valley Radio a one-time cash bonus will be paid to hourly employees who are under 18 years-old. Employees who are 18 and over and are part-time will receive an additional 20 hours of paid time off and full-time employees will get an additional 40 hours. Assistant managers and warehouse foreman will receive an additional 47 hours of paid time-off. The employee may choose to either use the additional paid leave as time-off or a cash payment. 

Toribio adds, all Fareway stores have increased cleaning protocols and wiping down shopping carts. While they have been in constant contact with suppliers, Toribio asks for customers to pass along any positive feedback to employees as they have put in long hours and are working tirelessly to stock shelves and help out when asked.