If there was ever a time to acknowledge mail carriers and postal workers, it is now.
Almost anyone you ask will tell you how difficult and lonely 2020 was: from lockdowns and social distancing (and the accompanying psychological impacts), to health scares, to financial burdens… but 2020 was especially hard for certain professions – many of which are often overlooked.
With continued restrictions on going out, many people relied more heavily on online orders than they have in the past. This put incredible pressure on our postal service and courier companies. When I look back on my own shopping experience over the last 10 months, almost none of it was done in person. Aside from grocery pickup, everything else was delivered to my house. From clothing, arts and craft supplies to entertain little ones, holiday presents, home décor, basic daily care items, etc. I know that for others, they also had their benefit checks delivered as well as lifesaving items like prescription medications.
The postal service also allowed loved ones who live far from each other to send presents, letters, and cards to feel more connected in these times of isolation. I know that the only way I was able to spread some holiday cheer to loved ones around the world was by sending packages and Christmas cards.
All these deliveries did not happen without challenges. Just go on any of the websites you shop from to see a highlighted warning of potential delivery delays, due to shortage of staff (and exhaustion of working staff) because of COVID-19. Despite these hardships, the U.S. Postal Service continued their work delivering mail for people and communities around the country, and for that we need to be grateful.
While we do not need a special day to say “thank you” to the men and women who work tirelessly to deliver our mail and packages to us, February 4th is set aside as ‘Thank a Mail Carrier Day’.
So, this February 4, more than any year, let’s tell our postal workers how much they mean to us. In our house, we absolutely love our mail carriers! Every time we see the mail truck, my two year old gets so excited and wants to run to the street to say hello and check on our mail and packages. In past years (and occasions) we have left snacks for them to have while on the road but with the virus being around, here are some ‘safer’ suggestions to show our appreciation.
- A ‘Thank You’ note can go a long way. Simply telling your mail person that you see them and are grateful for their work will brighten their day. It feels great to be appreciated!
- A cute drawing from your kids. It might not end up on their wall at home, but it will bring a smile to their face. Who doesn’t love kid’s artwork? We plan to have some fun crafts at our door the first couple weeks of February to show our support.
- Gift cards – especially to local business (they need our love more than ever with so much shopping being done online!). In 2020, I tried to buy local as much as possible – a great way to support the community and celebrate our mail carriers is to give them gift cards to some of our local business. For some inspiration, here is a list to some gift ideas you can find in Wichita and here are our top coffee places where you can find some great gift cards. Keep in mind that mail carriers are federal employees and are only permitted to accept a gift of $20 or less.
- Protective gear – Mail carriers are out and about all day long. They don’t have the option to stay home, so keeping safe from the virus is a priority. Helping replenish their supply of masks, hand sanitizers, and even Lysol wipes can be a way to show your appreciation.
- Taking time say hello. I know that we are currently social distancing, but a few minutes to say hello and show mail carriers that they are seen and they matter can be a great way to acknowledge them. Put your mask on, open the door, and have a quick chat with your mail person – you might be the only person to talk to them today as they usual work solo!
