Well being care staff can keep at choose Huge Island accommodations and resorts totally free beneath a brand new program meant to point out appreciation for overworked nurses, medical doctors, first responders and others.
The Lodges for Healthcare Heroes program was introduced Thursday by the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Affiliation.
It’s just like the Lodges for Heroes initiative that launched in April 2020 through the begin of the COVID-19 pandemic, however that program was state-funded. Lodges for Healthcare Heroes is solely funded by the collaborating companies.
Starting the weekend of Sept. 17 and persevering with on consecutive weekends via the tip of October, accommodations and resorts will present free two-night staycations for well being care staff chosen by hospital directors. The directors will work straight with HLTA and the Healthcare Affiliation of Hawaii to make reservations.
“I simply need to thank all the hospitality trade,” Mayor Mitch Roth stated throughout a information convention Thursday. “All through the entire pandemic, they’ve been unbelievable companions in pausing journey, in vaccination, and in testing. This program can be particularly welcome on Hawaii Island the place, previous to the pandemic, we have been already working at a scarcity of fifty% of mandatory well being care staff.”
Up to now, greater than 50 accommodations statewide have agreed to take part in this system, though HLTA President Mufi Hannemann stated extra are anticipated to affix.
On the Huge Island, six accommodations are concerned to date: the Hilo Hawaiian Lodge, Mauna Kea Resorts, 4 Seasons Resort Hualalai, Waikoloa Seaside Marriott, Mauna Lani Auberge Resorts and the Grand Naniloa Lodge.
A spokesman for the mayor stated extra accommodations are anticipated to announce their involvement quickly.
E mail Michael Brestovansky at mbrestovansky@hawaiitribune- herald.com.
