Evidence shows that those over the age of 65 may be most at risk for serious side-effects of COVID-19. Some grocery stores in Bradford are taking steps to provide a safer environment for their senior shoppers.
At Peter Reali’s no frills, beginning this week, the hour between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays will be reserved for seniors, those with disabilities and anyone in need of extra service. Other shoppers are asked to respect the decision, and plan to stay away from no frills at that time, to reduce the risk of disease transmission to a vulnerable sector of the population. The store is located at 305 Barrie St.
Sobeys stores across Ontario will be instituting a new policy, beginning March 20. Bradford Sobeys Store Manager Dave Carew noted that although he is still waiting for final details, plans are to ensure “the first hour will be dedicated to senior shoppers,” at the store at 40 Melbourne Dr.
“It is starting all across Ontario tomorrow,” Carew said, with additional measures in place to sanitize and clean the stores.
At Zehr’s Market, 500 Holland St. W., the grocery store will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. daily for “seniors, those with disabilities, and any vulnerable persons only… After 8 a.m. it’s for the regular public,” said a store spokesperson.
Walmart Superstore in Bradford, 545 Holland St. W., is currently in discussions, and will be communicating with the public once a decision has been made.
Shoppers Drug Mart has also set aside special “Seniors Only” shopping, from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Sundays.
“We are cleaning right before they get here, and at night,” said Pharmacist Owner Joanne Reaume, noting the goal is to ensure a safer shopping experience for older residents.
And when seniors come in during that hour, “they do that that seniors’ discount, no matter what day they come in,” Reaume said. The store is located at 140 Holland St. W.
