Special Report
Companies That Are Helping Americans Fight COVID-19
April 10, 2020 2:11 pm
Last Updated: April 15, 2020 9:12 am
The coronavirus pandemic has left some Americans unable to afford food and other basic needs. The U.S. Department of Labor reported that nearly 17 million workers, about 11% of the American workforce, filed for unemployment in a three-week span. While Congress has approved a stimulus program, it may not be enough or reach all those who need it. To assist in various matters related to the pandemic, whether for altruistic reasons — or, some might argue, to improve their brand image or increase their customer base — some corporations have stepped in to lend a hand.
24/7 Wall St. reviewed press releases and media reports to find companies that are helping Americans right now. The 26 companies included do not represent the entirety of American companies’ efforts, but rather this article is a snapshot of the kinds of actions being taken.
While the money and supplies donated by these companies will undoubtedly help, some of the same companies have also faced backlash related to their response to the pandemic, while others are significantly profiting from the crisis due to the nature of their business. These are America’s most hated companies.
President Donald Trump invoked the Defense Production Act to require companies to shift production to combat the epidemic. For example, it compelled automaker GM to use its facilities to build ventilators instead of vehicles. As the company was required by law to help, it was not considered for this list.
Much of the aid these companies offer has been focused on helping the health care workers treating COVID-19 patients. These workers need personal protective equipment to keep from getting sick. Ventilators are also desperately needed to treat patients with acute breathing difficulties as a result of COVID-19. These severely ill patients often end up in the intensive care unit, but hospitals in major hotspots may not have enough beds in these wards to adequately treat the expected influx of patients. These are the states with the most and least ICU beds.
Click here to see the companies that are helping Americans fight COVID-19.
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