With the coronavirus pandemic placing an unprecedented strain on healthcare resources across the globe and leaving people vulnerable economically, many in the business community have responded in various ways to support efforts to mitigate the spread and provide coronavirus support to those who are already feeling the financial implications. During a public health crisis, companies can serve as an immediate beacon of hope in the communities they serve. When the virus is contained and a return to normalcy begins, it is the socially responsible businesses that show true compassion for employees, consumers and the general public that will see loyal customers return.
There are many examples of organizations who have made important contributions during this time of immense need.
Providing Supplies for Healthcare Facilities
With the medical field overwhelmed with patients and facing shortages of essential supplies, companies are helping to fill the void. Anheuser-Busch and other craft distilleries are now producing hand sanitizers since there has been huge demand and significant shortage. Auto companies like Ford, GM and Tesla are now manufacturing ventilators, which are critical to treating severe cases of coronavirus. Christian Siriano, a fashion designer, has shifted production to face masks, and Los Angeles Apparel is now making surgical masks and hospital gowns. Tech giant Cisco has pledged $8 million in cash and $210 million in products to support groups like the United Nations Foundation’s COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund and the World Health Organization’s various coronavirus efforts. Facebook, Apple and Salesforce have all worked to donate much-need face masks to shield frontline workers during the crisis.
Businesses can show they are interested in activities that impact more than just their bottom line by assisting with medical supplies. By identifying a need outside of their core businesses, these companies are demonstrating a willingness to benefit society as a whole.
Supporting Employees
While many people can work remotely to practice social distancing, not all industries can shift to telecommuting during this time. As a ‘non-essential’ business, Bed Bath & Beyond closed all of its stores but will still pay employees and provide benefits during the closure. While pet stores have remained open, Petco has created the Petco Partner Assistance Fund with a $2 million initial investment to support workers and their families. Professional sports teams and players are supporting arena and stadium workers.
Businesses that are committed to their employees are more attractive to new hires. A better employee experience is also linked to the customer experience, and consumers are more inclined to support brands that treat workers with respect.
Donating to Impacted Workers
The global hospitality industry has taken the greatest immediate economic hit due to COVID-19. Suppliers have contributed financial assistance to workers who have been laid off because of closures. For example, Brown-Forman, a distillery company, donated $1 million to support impacted bartenders. Similarly, Patrón Tequila has pledged $1 million to benefit Children of Restaurant Employees (CORE), Another Round Another Rally and the James Beard Foundation.
Extending relief to those who are unemployed in the industry signals an appreciation for the people who help make the organization a success. Rather than ignoring the implications of the virus, socially responsible companies are looking for meaningful ways to ease the hardship.
In the months to come, there will continue to be vulnerable industries and people that need support, and the opportunity to lend a helping hand will remain.
