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Even during a pandemicespecially during a pandemicpeople need food.
But that doesnt come without a price.
People on social media are quick to compare their sacrifice to that of health-care workers and first responders.
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Well+Good: How long have you been working at Central Market?
Trejo:Ive been working there for 13 years.
What I love most about my job is the people.
How has your job changed since the beginning of the pandemic?
Oh gosh, its changed a lot.
First, it was getting rid of the free food samples.
Now, our cafe and food services sections are shut down all together.
My workplace has always been great about sanitation, but now its stepped it up even more.
Each basket and buggy is wiped down after each customer uses it and other surfaces are sanitized more often.
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The store also put up plastic dividers separating customers from the people working checkout to ensure social distancing.
A few of my friends were selling cloth masks, so I actually bought some from them.
That way, I can wash them every night when I get home from work.
I live with my 88-year-old grandmother and also my sister, who has a compromised immune system.
With these safety measures in place, do you feel safe going to work?
Each employee was given disposable masks and a T-shirt that says kindly keep your distance.
There are a few times when customers get a little too close and it makes me feel uncomfortable.
Have customers buying habits changed since the pandemic started?
It was so busy all the time.
The lines were really long and there was no break.
I compared it to Christmas without the joy.
Now, the store has put a limit on how much customers can buy.
For example, you’ve got the option to only buy two packages of flour.
People are still buying the same sorts of items now, just not in the same volume as before.
Thats when its the least busy [at my store].
What do you think aboutthe petitionto make grocery store workers eligible for PPE andhazard pay?
So Im grateful for it, but I dont think its enough.
Because we need the help.
Have customers done anything to make you feel appreciated for the work that you do?
That was really nice.
Im a grocery store worker and have worked in food service my whole life.
Im just doing my job, but it does feel nice to be appreciated.
Is there anything else you want people to know about being a grocery worker during COVID-19?
Just be patient with us.
Were all doing the best we can.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
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