Verizon, Ford work to feed healthcare workers in downtown Detroit

BASKING RIDGE, NJ -- Verizon is collaborating with the Ford Motor Company Fund to expand Verizon’s “Food for Frontline Workers” initiative to doctors, nurses and medical staff working in downtown Detroit. Local food trucks will provide one meal each day for two weeks to more than 300 medical staff working at the TCF Regional Care Center.

“When we started our ‘Food for Frontline Workers’ program earlier this month in New York City, we said we wanted to find ways to work with our customers and partners to expand the program to other cities,” said Tami Erwin, CEO of Verizon Business Group. “Ford highlighted the need for this type of program in their hometown, Detroit, and we were glad to be able to support their ongoing efforts.”

Verizon is supporting the efforts of local businesses like Grillz on Wheelz, Rolling Stoves, Meanie Weenie, Nosh Pit, Chicken Coupe and Curbside 313 who will arrive at the TCF Center each day to serve more than 300 meals to the doctors, nurses and staff working at the facility. Each business will follow strict food preparation and safety guidelines, while providing quick and delicious meals to these frontline healthcare workers.

The TFC Center has been transformed into a 970 bed hospital serving patients from Detroit and surrounding areas. Health workers have traveled from across Michigan and other states to treat patients suffering from COVID-19. Many of the alternative care facility staff are staying in local hotels with limited access to hot meals throughout the day.

“I’m thankful for Verizon and the Ford Motor Company Fund for bringing ‘Food for Frontline Workers’ program to Detroit,” said Michigan Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “This is another great example of how our communities are stepping up in incredible ways to support the brave women and men on the front lines of this health care crisis.”

Ford Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, is providing financial resources, as well as coordinating community efforts and transportation support for healthcare facilities battling COVID-19 in and around Detroit. Ford Fund is working with Verizon to incorporate the “Food for Frontline Workers” program into the ongoing community efforts.

“‘Food for Frontline Workers’ is a natural fit with our work to help those who are taking care of others,” says Lisa Gonzalez, community program manager, Ford Motor Company Fund. “We’re thankful to Verizon for stepping up to not only help feed critical care workers, but also support our neighborhood businesses.”

Meals began on Friday, April 24 and will run through Thursday, May 7.