We’ve heard the term “essential service worker” being used often during the current COVID-19 pandemic and we’ve learned that it represents a wide range of professions. Most notably those such as first responders, police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, health care workers, and many, many more who are on the front line providing service to others.
In these challenging times, these “helpers” are everywhere. They are all to be commended during this unprecedented time in our country and the world. It’s important that we don’t overlook the many other “heroes” that continue to do the jobs that help to keep society as a whole running. The grocery store employees, pharmacy & drug store personnel, food & beverage workers, cashiers & clerks, mail carriers, postal workers, bank employees, delivery truck drivers, janitorial & housekeeping personnel, and of course, the environmental service garbage & trash collectors.
Daniel Island is a community that is known for giving back to others. We feel like now more than ever is the right time to extend a huge debt of gratitude and appreciation to any and all essential service workers with a “thank you” to the caring and selfless individuals. Together as a community, let’s demonstrate our appreciation and show them how much we value their service and commitment. You can thank them in a variety of ways. Below are just a few simple ways that we as a community can show our gratitude along with other ideas that you may have for your family:
Say Thank You
The simplest way to thank someone is also the easiest way – just say thank you. When you encounter a service provider, be kind and ask how they are doing. They have the worry, frustration, and anger of the people they are serving while they are also dealing with their own worries and frustrations. Let them know you are grateful for their dedication and service.
Make Some Noise
We have all seen where many communities are now doing a salute to healthcare workers by applauding and cheering them on at their place of work. We can do the same by expressing our appreciation from our porch, front yard or through our windows. A simple handmade “thank you” sign or a friendly wave or a rousing clap and a cheer. A thank you the next time that you receive your mail or packages or see your trash and garbage collectors at your home.
Stay Safe at Home
The absolute best thing you can do to thank essential employees is keeping yourself safe at home so we can all stop the spread of COVID-19. Wash your hands often and stay inside except for absolutely necessary trips for grocery shopping, medical appointments, picking up prescriptions, walking pets, brief exercise, and helping the older and needy population. When outside, use social distancing to stay at least six feet away from others.
Thank you to all those who are doing their best to keep us healthy and safe – we’re all in this together!
