The food service industry plays a vital role in our country’s economy, as well as in our local communities. And it is no secret that a large portion of the US population serves as food service workers, 11.26 million, to be exact.
One of the many things the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us, is how essential our food service workers are in our modern society. In order to pay tribute to these brave and hard-working individuals, we are taking some time to focus on the significance of the role they play in supporting our country.
Absolutely Essential
Unfortunately, people who fill crucial roles such as fast-food staff, delivery people and other food service workers are viewed as unskilled or unsuccessful. However, The COVID-19 pandemic era has truly shed a light on how these essential workers fulfill the everyday services that consumers take for granted. Of course, many restaurants, bars, and food stores closed earlier on when the pandemic hit, but it quickly showed that food service workers were some of the first people back to work once restaurants started to open up again locally, and some really never stopped working.
Providing Support Here, There, and Everywhere
It is very easy to overlook the sheer number of areas where food service workers provide their support. These workers are not only employed by fast food, bar, and restaurant-specific establishments, but are also employed by hospitals, entertainment and event venues, and schools. Providing support and care, while often building meaningful connections with those in our community is something we have seen food service workers display in our nation not only during the pandemic, but for decades past.
It might have been easy to ignore the bravery of food service workers who risked their health during the pandemic to earn their weekly and monthly wages, while others may be fortunate enough to work from home. But, what is easy is not always right. As our nation looks forward to better and brighter days ahead, may we encourage one another to stick together. Our team at Arnold Insurance recognizes that one of the best ways to do this is to stand in solidarity with our essential workers, not only in the food service industry, but every service industry, as they serve on our front lines. Be on the lookout for our next and final installment in our “Salute To Our Frontlines” blog series for the month of July!
