I work for a small pizza shop, good ownership, I’ve known this family for 10+ years; my brother got me the job back then. I’ve been back at the shop delivering for the past 2.5 years and it is a job I really am grateful for.
Unfortunately I have lost two family members in as many years. My step father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer 2 months ago and he passed last Sunday. The following Tuesday, I tested positive for Covid. All the while, my employer expresses their condolences and keeps saying “if there’s anything you need, let me know”.
Obviously I appreciate flexing schedules around so i can have this time off but anyone at the shop would gladly deliver, good money.
So I’m texting my boss beginning of this week and again I get “anything I can do to help, you’re an extension of my family” so I said I am worried about bills, am I getting any of my time off covered? I drained my bank account to buy new tires so I can safely do my job. I am two weeks behind on bills and my boss offered to help with “expenses” whatever that means. I only pull about $225 a week on paper but to not get a definitive “don’t worry about your check” just really rubbed me wrong. I am not one to ask for money but I just wanted my employer to say “don’t worry, be with your family”.
Regardless, my tax return finally came in and I am back to work. I know everything will be fine and despite the circumstances, my family is okay. I still cherish my job for the flexibility it provides and the people I work with.