Republic Services supports local businesses while recognizing frontline employees

SALINAS, Calif. (KION) Republic Services announced a new "Committed to Serve" initiative to recognize frontline employees while also helping local businesses.

Over the course of the next two months, Republic Services said it will be giving its 28,000 frontline employees a weekly meal, weekly dinner for employees and their families and bi-weekly $100 gift cards to be spent locally.

The company said all meals will come from local small businesses.

In Salinas, the company will be providing meals for 53 employees every week. So far, Republic Services said it has spent $12,000 at local restaurants, including La Plaza Bakery, Pasta Mia, Salinas City BBQ, El Pollo Loco, Casa Sorrento Pizzeria and Mi Tierra.

"Small businesses are often hit the hardest during times of uncertainty. The "Committed to Serve" initiative is a gesture of support for both our employees and our local small businesses, many of whom are our customers," said Republic Services General Manager Luis Quinonez. "The reaction from small business owners and employees has been pure appreciation. Additionally, our employees feel a sense of pride being able to give back to the local community they serve."

Find out more about the initiative here.