Teamwork at Meadows Mart

This year has brought much change, uncertainty, and in some cases, growth for the team at Essex Meadows. As a work family, we have seen the best in our team members and colleagues. When protocol required social distancing and quarantine for residents, the Environmental Services and Transportation teams stepped up to the plate to ensure residents had access to their grocery needs through Meadows Mart, even adding delivery service.

“Roz and Terry have done a wonderful job in Meadows Mart during the pandemic,” said Barbara Sterne, resident at Essex Meadows. “They have gone well beyond just taking orders and delivering – they have gotten special items for me and are always willing to answer my many questions. They are very special people, and we are lucky to have them at Essex Meadows!”

Meadows Mart is typically operated by residents of the community. However, at the onset of restrictions during the pandemic, Roz and Terry were reassigned from housekeeping to managing the store. Since they could no longer enter resident apartments on a regular basis to comply with social distancing requirements, they put their energy to good use keeping up the inventory and expanding offerings available at Meadows Mart.

“The residents know they are my main concern, they’re like my parents,” Terry said. “When asked if we could manage Meadows Mart during the pandemic, I knew it would be a challenge to learn the ins and outs, but I was ready to help. It makes you feel really good to do something for others; it was rewarding every day.”

Roz helped to manage Meadows Mart as well and even picked up groceries for residents in her personal time. A retired chef, she has a special interest and knack for grocery shopping – and finding a good sale.

“I love working here,” Roz said. “As you get to know the residents, they become like family. Sometimes it’s the simplest things that make you happy – red seedless grapes, apple cider or avocados. It’s my pleasure to shop for the residents. I have to go to the store anyway, so why not help when I can.” And the residents at Essex Meadows appreciate the effort.

“I just want you to know how much I appreciate living at Essex Meadows during this difficult time,” said Dorie Pease, resident at Essex Meadows. “The amazing staff are providing us with the comforts of home while keeping us safe. Meadows Mart is a blessing carrying more items. Thank you a thousand times for all the staff does to ease our concerns.”

The offerings at Meadows Mart were complimented by the diligent work of the Essex Meadows Transportation Department. When drivers could no longer shuttle residents to the grocery store due to restrictions, Danton put his team to work picking up items from the grocery store, local farm stand, office supply stores and more.

“I enjoy working with residents in my position,” Danton said. “I am so grateful to our team members, drivers Suzanne Mandeville, Mark Phelan and Donna Lee Gennaro, who worked behind the scenes to ensure successful pick-up and delivery of these specialty items. Without them, I couldn’t do my job.”

“Essex Meadows and legendary Coach Bill Belichick [Head Coach, New England Patriots NFL Team] have something in common: the ability to move players around to the advantage of the team,” said Resident Chip Stone. “Roz, Terry and Danton have demonstrated great and steady skill at running Meadows Mart consistently with superb energy and accuracy. They meet the needs of Essex Meadows residents and brighten our path through this COVID crisis.”