We know it can be hard to feel optimistic during this unprecedented time. The news and social media showcases what seems to be the worst moments of the pandemic, and the stories don’t seem to stop. While we can’t do anything to take away the bad and the ugly of the coronavirus pandemic, we’re here to bring you the good. Here are several positive stories that may have slipped past your radar during this pandemic.
Penguins’ Players and Owners Work Together to Pay PPG Paints Arena Salaries
Many people are facing economic uncertainty during this time, but the PPG Paints Arena employees don’t have to worry. The Pittsburgh Penguins owners and players are working together to pay the employees – from cleaning to concessions – while the NHL is out of commission. Other teams and players are following suit, such as Zion Williams of the Pelicans solely paying Smoothie King Center employees’ salaries for 30 days.
Virtual Show Reunions
The thing about the pandemic that can loosely be seen as a positive is that we are all in this together. Including celebrities. This means that they also have an abundant amount of free time on their hands, leading to a slew of stars virtually reuniting with past cast members to lift the spirits of fans. Stars have taken to Instagram live, from a “Hannah Montana” ( Emily Osoment and Miley Cyrus) reunion to Bachelor fan favorites ( Hannah Sluss and Madison Prewitt). Check out “The Office” reunion of John Krasinski and Steve Carell on Krasinski’s youtube channel, and make sure to watch your favorite celebrities’ social media accounts to not miss out.
The Landlord that Gave Free Rent to Hundreds of People
Mario Salerno, of New York City, gave hundreds of tenants of free rent this month. Knowing that people were inevitably facing economic and emotional hardship during this time, he waved April rent for his properties. As New York City carries the largest number of cases in the United States, this was a bright spot for residents of a city that is struggling. He told tenants to “help their neighbors” – a message applicable to everyone right now.
Free Food to Health Care Workers
Those who are treating patients are on the front lines of this epidemic. In order to help them, hundreds of people, organizations, and companies across the U.S. are pitching in with meals. Starbucks is offering free coffee, Sweet Green is offering free menu items, and more.
Health Care Heroes – from everywhere
The world is working together, for what might seem like the first time ever. Cuba is sending doctors to Italy and beyond, China gave mask to Massachusetts, and more. We’re all citizens of the world, and working as a team to get through it together.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.