PARKER, Colo. -- A simple way to show gratitude for doctors and nurses is also giving a boost to a small business.
A group of Douglas County residents wanted to do something to let hospital staff know just how much they're appreciated. They decided to drop off sandwiches at Parker Adventist Hospital and began searching for a local business that could fulfill the request.
"I think it's easy on social media to say we care, and we're thinking of you guys, but to actually go and do something is where the real impact is," said Jessica Lentz, one of the organizers.
Lentz and her friend Lindsay Mann-Emerson contacted the owner of The Gym Co. to ask if they could make 125 sandwiches. The restaurant just opened in early March, and the owner, Miguel Hernandez, was grateful for the business.
Hernandez is also happy to know that his food will help feed healthcare workers on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic.
"I just really hope that it gives them a great feeling that we're still here in the community, we're just trying to support each other," said Miguel Hernandez, The Gym Co. owner.
Hernandez called in some of his employees to help with the order, allowing them to pick up additional work hours. His restaurant is also open for takeout and delivery.
"Obviously, we're very grateful that we'll be supplying those sandwiches for them," said Hernandez.
The hospital staff members were grateful too.
"They were kind of in tears on the phone when we called," said Mann-Emerson. "I hope that they know that we know that they're taking care of us and that they're keeping all us safe and that we appreciate it and that they're not alone."
