Frontline workers across the country are putting their lives at risk in the fight against the coronavirus outbreak, working nonstop -- sometimes without even thinking about a meal.
WJXT Channel 4, the Local Station, has launched Food4Frontline, a community-wide effort to help both frontline workers and local restaurants, on News4JAX.com.
“We have been telling the stories of doctors, nurses, EMT workers and other first responders who are so busy caring for others they don't have time to think about eating,” said Bob Ellis, WJXT/WCWJ vice president and general manager. “This is our opportunity to coordinate a meaningful effort to take care of them. To do this and also help local restaurants in the process is our way of living out our mission as Jacksonville's only truly local television station in these unprecedented times.”
The Food4Frontline effort will accomplish three things:
Solicit: WJXT has heard from so many in the community who are eager to contribute in some way. This is a chance to give back to those who are working so hard to save people's lives. These heroes without capes are putting their lives at risk while they work long shifts. WJXT -- with the community's help -- wants to feed them.
Serve: WJXT will then partner with local restaurants to order meals that will be distributed to those on the frontline. The hope is that this partnership will assist Jacksonville-area restaurants and their staff. Partners will uphold high standards in food preparation always and now, during this COVID-19 pandemic. Meals for the frontline workers will be individually packaged.
Support: These collective efforts will show those on the front line – hospital and health care workers, emergency responders or staff keeping stores’ shelves stocked -- that people are thinking of them and appreciate all that they are doing.
To donate meals to Jacksonville-area hospitals through Food4Frontline, you can start the process here.