Based on CDC guidance and a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases among Co-op employees, the Co-op is reinstating a mask-required policy for everyone inside our facility beginning Wednesday, April 27. Surgical masks will be available for those who need one. We have reposted the employee case dashboard to our website for shoppers to track employee cases. Our response team will continue to monitor case trends and the latest information as we plan next steps.
We understand many people will be disappointed with this decision; all of us are frustrated with the persistence of this pandemic. Again, please contact me if you want to express your disappointment or frustration with our policy. As a cooperative focused on community and health, we have a responsibility to provide reasonable protection for our many members, shoppers, employees, and vendors as well as their loved ones at home who may be at high-risk of severe illness. Please exercise kindness and patience as we navigate this next stage of this challenging time.