The Kroger Company recently announced that in response to the COVID19 pandemic, it has given out $5 million in associate grants through the Kroger Helping Hands Fund as part of a number of efforts to help ensure its associates are supported and protected.

The Helping Hands Fund is a program that Kroger created to financially assist associates during times of hardship due to an unexpected crisis or emergency situation, such COVID-19. Kroger associates can apply for a grant of up to $2500 through the fund, which they do not have to pay back.

“We understand that some of our associates may be experiencing family hardships during these times of uncertainty, and we want to support those associates who are being impacted” said Joe Kelley, president of Kroger Houston. “It’s important to me that we take care of our people.”

Over 100 Kroger associates in the Houston Division have received grants through the Helping Hands Fund this year.

To combat the spread of COVID-19 and keep associates and customers safe while shopping in stores, the grocer equipped all stores with plexiglass barriers, social distancing decals and sanitizers and has provided personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks, gloves and face shields for associates.

“The health and safety of our associates is my top priority,” said Kelley. “The current situation is ever changing, but we will continue to do what’s right to keep our associates safe.”