Being a store manager for Kroger has never been more important than it is today—especially for Wade Miller.

Working six days and more than 60 hours per week due to the new challenge of COVID-19, Miller's store has gone through numerous changes in the past two months. From one cart and person per family, to supply issues with cleaning supplies, toilet paper and meat, to changing store hours allowing for adequate time to stock and clean the store, he's handled everything in stride.

“Things just change so rapidly,” Miller says. “There was no real plan of action for this. Every day we hold conference calls, gather new information and try to figure out how we move forward.”

Miller is not alone in dealing with rapid change and uncertainty. Many store employees have anxiety about coming to work, but it is the community support that keeps them going. Miller told me that pizza has been delivered to store employees, senior shoppers have expressed their gratitude for being able to shop early and the company has provided the employees with personal protective equipment and raises. The store even gets a weekly budget to help feed employees on the job.

One thing is for certain, NKU appreciates everything Miller is doing. Thanks to you and all your colleagues for all you continue to do for our community in this difficult time. It is your hard work and commitment that provides some stability for us.