During this COVID-19 pandemic, Arlington has sought ways to extend support to healthcare workers in our community who are selflessly fighting on the frontlines of this crisis. Caring for others requires sustained energy, and providing meals is a helpful way to give thanks to medical professionals.

“We chose Meals for Healthcare Heroes, said Kara Harton Glover, director of human resources for Arlington because it was the perfect fit for Arlington’s desire to get involved in helping support local healthcare workers as well as the Birmingham business community.” “We learned of the program from a business colleague, Will Baker, senior managing director at Walker & Dunlop. Will and his wife Susannah spearheaded this initiative in Birmingham, and we are honored to participate.”

Meals for Healthcare Heroes provides meal delivery to the staff at Birmingham hospitals and inpatient medical facilities. It is structured so that local businesses and restaurants may coordinate to support medical professionals during their work shifts. Restaurants prepare and deliver meals to designated healthcare units, with participating companies covering the cost. This strategy benefits healthcare workers, and it also provides revenue to local restaurants so that they may stay in business.

So far, Arlington has had meals delivered to COVID-19, respiratory therapy, and medical intensive care units at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Brookwood Baptist Medical Center, UAB Hospital, and ExpectCare Hospice. We currently sponsor 3-5 deliveries per week. Some participating restaurants include Johnny’s Restaurant of Homewood, Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q, Ashley Mac Catering, Ollie Irene, Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ, The Blueroot Company, Moe’s Original Bar B Que, and Over Easy. Social media is seeing posts from restaurants, as well as from medical centers, highlighting the inspiring impact that Meals for Healthcare Heroes is having on the community.

We love receiving feedback from our dedicated medical personnel who nurture those in need. This interaction helps bring us all together during a time when moral support is vital. Meals for Healthcare Heroes provides a platform for sharing service and gratitude, bridging the social-distance gap between people in the community. While such a contagious virus has shaken the world, we all must remember that smiles, hope, thanks, and kindness are also contagious. Let’s stay strong and keep the positive vibes circulating!