SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The Purple Porch Food Co-op in South Bend is joining area grocery stores in creating special shopping hours for people who are more susceptible to the negative health effects of the coronavirus. 

8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Wednesdays will be reserved for people who are over the age of 65.

Also, anyone who suffers from lung disease, diabetes, heart disease, an autoimmune disorder or any kind of respiratory illness will be allowed to shop during the special hours.

Rebecca Morissete, the General Manager of Purple Porch, said that they feel obligated to go the extra mile to help curtail the spread of the coronavirus.

“They’re our neighbors, not just our customers, so I think it’s important that every local business looks at how they could help these people in need and in turn help your business in a time of need,” Morisette said.

Purple Porch will be fully sanitized and the shelves will be stocked to ensure that at-risk customers have equal availability to grocery items.

The café at the Purple Porch will also continue to offer takeout services but dining-in will not be allowed.