(WWJ) The wait was long, and the weather was chilly, but many people lined up early for special shopping hours at Sam's Club in Canton this morning seemed to be in OK spirits, under the circumstances.
Sam's is one of many retail chains in metro Detroit and nationwide that are offering dedicated hours for vulnerable shoppers amid the COVID-19 crisis.
All appearing to be standing the mandated six feet apart, many wore masks or latex gloves as they waited with their carts; some smiling, others waving or giving WWJ Newsradio 950's Charlie Langton a thumbs up.
"I'll keep my social distancing," Langton said, asking what those in the line, stretching across the front of the massive store, were hoping to buy.
"Gotta get my prescription," said one man, who told Langton "no"; he's not worried about being around so many people.
Another shopper exclaimed: "Toilet paper!!" ... which has been notably difficult to come by in recent weeks.
Beginning last Thursday, Sam's Club locations across the U.S. began offering designated shopping hours every Tuesday and Thursday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. for senior citizens, people with disabilities and those with compromised immune systems. The company said this includes the pharmacy and optical centers, and that it would continue until further notice.
During these special hours, seniors and other vulnerable club members, of they choose, can shop without ever leaving their vehicle, too. From a designated parking location, members can place their order from their car. Then a Sam's Club associate will grab the items on the list, and the member will use Scan & Go to check out.
Target, Meijer and other chains are offering similar programs amid the pandemic.
