Target responds to COVID-19 outbreak by offering access to paid leave

Target is looking to aid its team members who have been on the front lines during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic by announcing two new initiatives being taken.

First, the Minneapolis-based retailer will be raising its pay for employees by $2 an hour until at least May 2.

Secondly, team members who are 65 years old or older, pregnant or have an underlying medical condition, will have access to paid leave for up to 30 days. The absenteeism policy will be waived during this time, and quarantine and confirmed illness pay will be covered.

Another initiative being taken by Target during this time also include bonuses for 20,000 hourly store team leads who are managing individual departments in physical stores that range from $250 to $1,500.

“We continue to experience incredible demand across our business, and Target's ability to help our guests in this unprecedented time would not be possible without the strength of our team. I am proud and humbled by the dedication and humanity they show to our guests every day,” Brian Cornell, CEO of Target said. “Increasing their compensation for a job incredibly well done and ensuring continued compensation for those who need to care for themselves and their families is a reflection of our company's values and simply the right thing to do.”

In addition, $1 million will be donated to the Target Team Member Giving Fund, which assists team members most impacted by the coronavirus.

Another $9 million will be committed to expanding relief and assistance to organizations aiding in responding to the virus.

“Families across the country are counting on Target in so many ways during this pandemic, and our team has been nothing short of remarkable,” said Cornell. “The commitments we're making today will provide additional resources for our most valuable asset — our team, their families and the communities impacted by the coronavirus.”