Following the recent devastating tragedies in New York, California and Texas, we offer our thoughts and condolences to the victims’ families and their communities. While the below story was written before these acts of violence, we still wanted to share how, without hesitation, our associates come together to help support our communities.
When a scary incident happened a few blocks away at a local high school, Customer Service Manager Michelle DaLuz and Floating Assistant Grocery Manager Marcus Mickens, #493, Oviedo, Florida, jumped into action.
Last November, a local high school was hosting its homecoming dance when a weapon was spotted, sending students fleeing from the scene. Terrified students ran out of the school and down the road toward #493.
“A group of students ran into our store and told us what happened at their dance,” said Marcus. “Immediately I knew I needed to help in any way I could.”
Marcus went to the parking lot to corral students toward the store while Michelle worked on setting up an area by the pharmacy for students to go. She brought snacks and water for the students and gave them her phone and the store phones to call their parents.
“The annual active shooter response training Publix provides helped us take charge and create a safe space for the kids,” said Michelle. “Our whole team helped out and nobody panicked because we all knew what to do.”
As worried parents started arriving to pick up their kids, Marcus thought of how he would feel in their position if the roles were reversed.
“As a parent, I told myself that nothing would happen to these students under my watch,” said Marcus. “It’s great to work for a company where values like this matter to all of us. Every single associate in the store made sure the students were safe and cared for.”
During the beginning of the pandemic, the Oviedo community helped uplift and support Publix associates by delivering cards and goodies to keep them going. Michelle and Marcus were thrilled they could finally return the favor of providing support.
“Being responsible citizens in our communities isn’t just volunteering or being sustainable,” said Michelle. “It’s ensuring associates and customers have a place they can turn to if times get tough, and I am proud to have helped Publix be that beacon of light for the Oviedo community.”
A Mr. George Gold Coin Award 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 Mr. George Gold Coin recipients in Publix News.
