Assistant Store Manager Yetnayet (Yetty) Tadesse, #1029, Homestead, Florida, knows just how to give back to our community heroes.

Yetty knows the importance of supporting her community and has always been inspired by our promise to be responsible citizens.

“I love the family environment at Publix and how we are encouraged to support people around us whenever possible,” said Yetty. “Through opportunities like Publix Serves and our many fundraising efforts, we get to work in a giving environment that allows a servant mentality to truly flourish.”

Last September, Yetty met a grandmother who was caring for her daughter’s twin children. After talking with them, she learned the story of the kids’ mother and was moved beyond words.

“She told me her daughter was a first responder and worked very long shifts, which were complicated by the pandemic,” said Yetty. “Recently, her daughter learned she had cancer and had to work not only through her shifts, but also her treatments, which tired her even more.”

When Yetty heard the twins’ birthday was coming up and the grandmother was pinching pennies to buy them bikes, she immediately knew she had to jump into action.

“I knew I wanted to help make their birthday one to remember,” Yetty said.

Yetty worked with Store Manager Dara Self to buy the bikes and put together a cake and some balloons to help the twins celebrate their big day. When the grandmother received the goodies, she was left speechless and could not stop thanking them for the amazing surprise.

“We always look for ways to support people who need a helping hand,” said Yetty. “Seeing it come to fruition just warmed my heart and reminded me that is our purpose as associates.”

A gold coin is given to associates who embrace the Publix culture and provide premier service the way Mr. George himself would have. Receiving a gold coin means you’ve made a real difference in the lives of others by going above and beyond. Associates can become eligible for a gold coin by receiving praise through the customer care department, which reviews each case based on established criteria and guidelines.

Take a moment to read about other gold coin winners in Publix News.