Like most moms in America, I’m a frequent flyer at my local Target. In normal times, I peruse the store at least a couple of times per week (OK, probably more)—it’s my preferred “get away from it all” easy escape. 

Of course, quarantine life and social distancing has changed all of that, but Target is still giving us plenty of reasons to give them our business. 

Target CEO Brian Cornell recently announced the company is investing more than $300 million to help employees through this tumultuous time. 

Target’s investing more than $300 million, including increased hourly wages, a new paid leave program, bonuses and community assistance for local, national & global organizations responding to the pandemic. More here: https://t.co/bu1y3JjMPC pic.twitter.com/lKc9beRxkU

— Target News (@TargetNews) March 20, 2020

What that looks like is a $2/hour pay increase for workers; expanded access to paid leave for workers 65 or older, pregnant, or with underlying medical conditions; bonus payouts; and a beefed-up relief fund for workers most impacted by the global pandemic.

Bottom line: the retail giant is stepping up to take care of its own in a time when so much feels uncertain.

“Families across the country are counting on Target in so many ways during this pandemic, and our team has been nothing short of remarkable,” Cornell said in a statement. “The commitments we’re making today will provide additional resources for our most valuable asset—our team, their families and the communities impacted by the coronavirus.”  

Given the fact that we all still need to make the occasional Target run for toilet paper and other essentials, it makes my mama heart happy to know the workers keeping the stores operational are being cared for. 

When I did a quick run to my local Target this morning, I was met at the door by an employee with a bottle of disinfectant and rags; she sprayed down a cart and pushed it to me with a smile. Life, as it must, goes on even in its current limited capacity—and companies that are stepping up to do the right things will earn my business now and long after the pandemic passes. 

Well done, Target!