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 Maritta Robinson works in the mailroom at Lincoln
Christian University. Though there are few people on campus right
now, there is mail coming in that must be sorted and delivered.
Robinson said, “I feel privileged to make sure letters and packages
are forwarded on to our students, faculty and staff members.”
With most of the faculty and staff working from home,
Robinson sends out messages and they come pick up their mail.
Robinson has limited contact with a few people each day. She always
keeps her safety in mind, washing her hands and following the
six-foot distance guidelines. Otherwise, though, her work is just
the same.
Danita Gabbrants of Emden works in an independent pharmacy in nearby
Delavan. The pharmacy has closed the lobby to anyone coming in and
is doing curbside pickup and the occasional delivery. Gabbrants
said, “It is rough for both us and the pharmacy technicians. The
phones ring off the hook now.”
Another person dealing with many customers a day is Deborah Gerrette,
who works at Lincoln IGA. Gerrette said they have stayed busy and
put tape up for the safety of both the employees and customers.
Right when Gerrette gets home, she washes her hands and clothes to
protect both herself and her family. [to top of second
column] |
Barb Kindred does ‘Help at Home’ care. When
she is working with clients, she must wear masks and gloves.
Previously, she had to wear gloves to do cleaning and provide
care, but now she must wear them all the time while working.
Kindred makes sure to wash her hands every time she changes
gloves. Just recently she had to start wearing the mask for
extra safety measures as many others are now doing.
Part of Kindred’s job is different right now because
she is unable to take clients shopping or to a doctor’s appointment,
which is hard for the clients. Fortunately, they can still take
short walks. As an essential worker,
Kindred carries a letter from the president of Help at Home
explaining that.
If Kindred or the client has a cough or any similar symptoms, she
cannot provide services. As many others are likely doing, when
Kindred goes home, she throws her clothes in the laundry and then
showers.
It is also important to leave shoes worn out and about in a place
outside your living area and to wipe down car interiors with
disinfectant.
These essential workers “out on the front lines” are adapting by
practicing safety measures to protect themselves and those around
them.
[Angela Reiners]
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