As fears of coronavirus infections spread, many senior living workers are opting to stay home or quit altogether. Operators are dangling sweeteners as never before in an attempt to make sure their employees keep punching in.
Emerging perks include hefty bonuses, help with groceries and even on-premises day care, just to name a few.
Some new tactics are detailed in LeadingAge’s member-to-member solutions site in response to the health crisis.
A New York provider gave about $400,000 in bonuses to its 875 employees. St. Ann’s Community, an independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing provider in Rochester, NY, told the organization that part-time and full-time workers received $250 and $500 bonuses, respectively, in late March. In addition to the bonuses, the operator has also been providing complementary food to workers on duty and relaxed dress code requirements.
“Our team members are balancing work with the support and care they need to provide to their own families, especially during this anxious and difficult time for all of us,” St. Ann’s President and CEO Michael McRae said. “They are incredible, and we are completely in awe of their willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty.”
The Jewish Home Family, a New Jersey-based operator, is offering employees additional access to staple grocery items — such as milk, eggs, rice and toilet paper — at cost to reduce their need from going into grocery stores. The nonprofit also has implemented theme days, special treats and a paid time off bank with donated hours for staff members.
Garvey Manor, a Pennsylvania-based continuing care retirement / life plan community, is using social media to recruit recently laid off and displaced workers. The operator recently issued a notice on its Facebook page calling for those “looking for a place to work where you can make a difference in the lives of others.”
