As travel largely came to a halt due to the coronavirus pandemic, hospitality companies have been looking for ways to support those in need. And today, American Express and Hilton announced that they were partnering to donate one million hotel room nights across the country to medical professionals working tirelessly to fight against COVID-19.
“During this crisis, we have seen so many examples of medical professionals working in the most challenging circumstances, sacrificing their own needs for the greater good. They truly are heroes,” said Hilton President and CEO Christopher J. Nassetta in a statement. “We are honored to extend our Hilton hospitality to them during this difficult time.”
Beginning next week, free rooms will be available across Hilton brands to doctors, nurses, first responders, and any other frontline medical staff through the end of May. The hotels will follow enhanced safety and health protocols like common areas being sanitized using industrial-grade cleaners and specially-trained staff to safeguard guests and themselves.
This offer creates a space for thousands of medical staff working long hours to rest, recharge, and self-isolate from their families during the trying time.
“Knowing that there is a safe, clean, and comfortable hotel room waiting for you at the end of a long shift can make all the difference in the world right now,” William Jaquis, MD, FACEP, president of the American College of Emergency Physicians said. “The kind of compassion and caring that Hilton and American Express are offering has never been more welcome.”
Hilton is working with 10 associations, such as the Society of Hospital Medicine and the American Nurses Association, to create a streamlined network giving room access to more than 1 million healthcare workers who would otherwise have to pay for accommodations.
“Our medical workers who are courageously and selflessly serving on the frontlines in the coronavirus crisis represent the best of who we are,” said American Express Chairman and CEO, Stephen J. Squeri. “We’re honored to support this initiative with our longtime partner, Hilton, to provide the heroes in our communities a place to rest, recharge and help keep their loved ones safe during this time.”
