I am disappointed by the company’s decision to discontinue “Hero Bonus” program on May 16. While other major retailers—including many of your competitors—continue to provide hazard pay for their employees, Kroger has decided to abruptly take it away despite the fact that the novel coronavirus is still ravaging many of our communities.

Circumstances concerning the pandemic have not changed, and workers are no less anxious on the job today than when this pandemic first began. As states across the country start to ease restrictions, workers at many Kroger locations will find themselves at higher risk of COVID-19.

“Hero Bonus” is a feel-good phrase. Although we commend the company for providing it during these difficult times, we all know that it is actually “hazard pay” because these are hazardous conditions for Kroger workers. Workers need to be taken care and deserve to be compensated accordingly. Until public health improves and working conditions are safe, we demand to have our hazard pay continue.

We ask that you reconsider and extend this pay for as long as we face a global pandemic.

Thank you,