As COVID-19 continues to sweep the world, healthcare workers everywhere are putting in extra effort to provide care and comfort to those affected by the virus. With many businesses having closed their doors in response to the pandemic, major coffee chain Starbucks is offering a unique way to give back. The question remains – does Starbucks still give free coffee to healthcare workers?
The answer to that question is yes. As of April 2020, Starbucks began the ‘Certified Kindness’ program in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program includes offers like free beverages to first responders and healthcare workers. Any healthcare worker wearing scrubs at a participating location can receive a free tall brewed hot or iced coffee.
In speaking with healthcare providers, many have found the program to be a source of comfort during a difficult time. For instance, Dr. Stewart Fox, a pediatrician in California said that it was a small gesture that could make a world of difference. “It’s always nice to know that someone is looking out for us and taking care of us while we take care of other people”.
However, some have taken issue with the program as well. Elizar Jakob, a representative of the International Council of Nurses, highlighted that the offer does not extend beyond Starbucks locations. Jakob believes that it should be the responsibility of corporations to provide for healthcare workers wherever they may be.
This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Daniela Dimitrova, an epidemiologist from Romania. She believes that healthcare workers deserve far more than this gesture. While these offers of gratitude are certainly meaningful, it would be much more beneficial if businesses would pledge funds and resources to health frontliners and those on the frontlines in the fight against COVID-19.
The takeaway from this? Starbucks’ ‘Certified Kindness’ program is a great way to show support for healthcare workers. The free coffee may not seem like much, but it is the thought that counts – especially during a time of such great difficulty and uncertainty.
Teams Involved in COVID-19 Response
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a tremendous impact on everyone, but healthcare workers have assumed an unprecedentedly large role as they continue to fight against the virus. From nurses to doctors to public health professionals, a broad range of professionals have been involved in the response to the virus.
Doctors and nurses are at the frontline of the response, providing care and support to those affected. They are expected to show up for work even during extraordinary circumstances, and do more with fewer resources and less staff. At the same time, public health professionals help prevent the spread of the virus and provide valuable information to the public by researching and publishing data about the challenges faced by different communities.
Respiratory therapists, too, have taken on a huge role in the COVID-19 response. Respiratory therapists provide life-saving treatment to individuals experiencing difficulty breathing. They use specialized machines to improve oxygen delivery, while at the same time providing comfort and compassion to those in need.
Finally, medical laboratory scientists play an important part in testing for the virus. They specialize in analyzing the samples taken from patients in order to diagnose infections, track the spread of the virus, and provide accurate results. Their work is integral to controlling the spread of the virus.
Starbucks’ Other Efforts to Support Healthcare Workers
The ‘Certified Kindness’ program isn’t the only effort Starbucks is taking to support healthcare workers. The chain has also recently announced a partnership with the American Red Cross and AARP Foundation in order to provide more than three million meals to healthcare workers in the United States. Additionally, the company has committed $1.4 million to the Crisis Text Line to provide mental health and emotional support to those in need, including healthcare workers.
In addition to these charitable efforts, Starbucks has also dedicated resources to make life a bit easier for nurses and healthcare professionals. The chain has offered discounts for healthcare workers, and has provided dedicated stores, as well as extended hours of operation at select locations.
These efforts demonstrate that Starbucks is dedicated to supporting healthcare workers beyond just providing free coffee. Although the company has faced criticism for the effort, it is clear that their heart is in the right place.
Accountability of Corporations
It is important to remember that Starbucks is just one example of a corporation putting forth an effort to support healthcare workers. There have been many other businesses who have taken action as well. In fact, a number of corporations have gone beyond simply offering free products or meals and have donated millions of dollars to healthcare organizations and charities.
This demonstrates the importance of holding corporations accountable for their actions during times of crisis. During this pandemic, it is essential that businesses continue to look for ways to support essential workers and those most vulnerable to the virus.
It is also important to remember that this crisis is far from over. Starbucks and other corporations must continue to put forth efforts to provide relief to those on the frontlines in the fight against COVID-19.
The Role of Consumers
The effort to support frontline healthcare workers must extend beyond just corporations. It is up to consumers to create a demand for products and services that support the efforts to fight the virus.
One of the most effective ways to do this is by spending money on companies or products that provide relief to those on the frontlines. For instance, buying from businesses that support healthcare professionals in addition to offering discounts is a good way to put money into the pockets of those on the frontlines.
At the same time, it is important for consumers to be mindful of their daily habits. For instance, opting to shop online as opposed to visiting a physical store limits contact with potentially infected individuals, thereby helping to prevent the spread of the virus. Additionally, taking part in community outreach initiatives is an effective way to provide relief to those most affected by the virus.
Ultimately, it is up to us as consumers to ensure that businesses are doing their part to provide relief to healthcare workers during this difficult time. It is only through our collective efforts that we will be able to effectively fight the virus and make sure those on the frontlines receive the support they deserve.
