BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Sofia Perrazzo is a mother and has been an employee of the Grocery Outlet Bargain Market, off of Ming and Ashe since February.
Little did she know in just a few weeks she would find herself as an essential business employee. Who is allowed to work during the COVID-19 outbreak, according to Gavin Newsom's stay-at-home order.
"Honestly, they have been so sweet," Perrazzo said. "I have had a lot of people call us superheroes during our shift."
Perrazzo says it's a tough but meaningful position to be in.
"It's cool to be in essential business, honestly so that we can help those who need it," Perazzo said. "On top of still being able to do our jobs as well."
The store's owner, Jessica Snider, says she is making sure the shelves are full of their daily shipments.
Her employees are working overtime and they even have had to hire additional workers to meet the demand.
"Even though we are tired, people are telling us you all are more stocked than other stores, even the big chains," said Snider. "Everyone is always smiling. I just pray that God gives us wings right now and a good attitude."
Snider says they've had to make some changes throughout the store, like placing social distancing x's for customers to stand.
She adds they are ensuring the proper cleanliness of their employees
Also, the store is limiting the number of goods shoppers can purchase for popular items like eggs, water, and rice.
"We don't like to limit the items, but we have to at this moment," Snider said. "We are reminding our customers to not forget to be kind. The reason why you are holding that item in your hand is, because we are limiting it."
Perrazo says being optimistic and enforcing necessary precautions motivates her in her job. She has this message to all of her fellow grocery workers across the country.
"Keep up the great work, I know it's hard right now," Perazzo said. "If we don’t do our jobs everyone is going to be struggling and no one is going to get what they need."
