CVS awarding bonuses to front-line employees, hiring new workers

CVS Health is awarding bonuses ranging from $150 to $500 to employees who have been working during the coronavirus pandemic, the company announced on Monday.

Pharmacists, health care professionals, store associates and managers, and some hourly employees will be awarded the bonuses.

CVS also said it plans to immediately hire 50,000 full-time, part-time and temporary workers, including store associates, home delivery drivers, distribution center employees and customer service professionals.

The company will use virtual job fairs, virtual interviews and virtual tryouts to make hires. It noted that many of these roles will be filled by workers who were laid off by CVS Health clients, including Hilton and Marriott.

“Our colleagues have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to providing essential goods and services at a time when they’re needed most,” Larry Merlo, the CEO of CVS, said in a statement. “As they continue to be there for the individuals and families we serve, we’re taking extra steps to provide some peace of mind and help them navigate these uncertain times.” 

The company also said 24 hours of paid sick leave will be available to part-time employees during the coronavirus pandemic. Full-time employees already have paid sick leave. CVS has already offered 14 days of paid leave to employees who have coronavirus or need to quarantine due to exposure.

Additionally, CVS is offering to cover 25 days of care for employees with child and elder or adult-dependent care needs.