Joe Mason on his way to deliver grocery orders to community members.

With COVID-19 making its waves across the nation, retailers are working hard to accommodate customers – and in St. Theresa Point, MB, phone-in ordering is a new and convenient shopping strategy.

Aligning with the government’s call to practice social distancing, Northern St. Theresa Point is allowing customers to purchase by phone – maximizing flexibility yet minimizing contact. To use this service, customers can call the store manager and place their orders, which are transferred to a team of senior staff who fulfill the requests and verify transactions. These individuals will also be the special shippers – bringing groceries to the doorstep of isolated customers.

Store Manager Murray Thomas says this service has been a huge relief to vulnerable residents, and he considers the act a “priceless endeavor” that his Northern team gets to carry out. He also credits his colleagues who are a part of this noble mission.

“Joe Mason and Russell Wood – whom have been with the community for 42 and 37 years respectively – have been chosen for this special job. Our customers trust Joe and Russell. These two also know where everyone lives in the community, which has been a great help. Their dedication to offering quality service and closeness with customers is invaluable during time like this.”

Delivery service is just one of the few initiatives that Northern stores throughout the North have implemented to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.