Whether you believe in science or not, believe COVID is a hoax or not, think wearing a mask and washing your hands works or not, something’s wrong when arenas are becoming temporary hospitals, too many people are dying in a short amount of time, hospitals are running out of oxygen. And since when has it become the norm to have dozens of refrigerated trucks in hospital parking lots to stack our loved ones who have passed away?

Though this is our latest reality check it has put a few other things in perspective, like privilege. In just days, those who could still afford to dine out or shop were unable to as those minimum wage employees were put out of work. Suddenly we all realized how much these folks, who get paid the least, contribute to our nation’s survival. Our foodservice and retail personnel have always been our heroes, we just had to see it.

Suffice to say, our industry was devastated and still is. But through it all, so many have found creative ways to survive and support other professions. Though there will always be those who take advantage of situations, so many others are doing great things. These are the situations that remind us where we came from, the hard times we survived, those who helped us along the way and what made us successful.

Restaurateurs and foodservice professionals who have financial stability aren’t just giving back to the communities who have supported them; they are also supporting smaller mom and pop restaurant owners. Larger facilities are sharing their storage and kitchens so other businesses (in some cases their competition) can make it. Central kitchens, ghost kitchens and test kitchens, a number of which are associated with our manufacturers and rep groups, are doing the same. Facilities who can afford it are remaining open after hours so small local businesses and nonprofits can utilize their kitchens and support those on the front lines. Though so many businesses had to cut staff or close their doors, these same folks are volunteering—because that’s what we do. Companies and businesses have merged, and others have partnered to increase business and efficiently utilize their facilities for the long haul. Other companies are purchasing facilities and businesses that have closed, which may bring life back to struggling neighborhoods. Fast food businesses, groceries, and restaurants have stepped up, donating food to homeless shelters, care facilities, hospitals, fire and police stations, and families who have lost their income. These are just a few of the amazing things our industry is doing. I hope we all continue to work together when this new normal goes out of style, because we shouldn’t need something like this to bring the best out of us.

Though we are going through hard times the sun comes up every day. Things will get better. This is a new challenge. We haven’t been here before but we are resilient and will survive this too. Be kind, help one another, smile—it goes a long way. So does good Karma! To those on the front lines, thank you. And, thank you for the fabulous work the foodservice industry professionals do every day.