The Kroger Company announced Tuesday it will provide employees with a “Hero Bonus” for continuing to serve customers throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

Hourly workers at Kroger, the largest grocery store chain in America, will all receive $2 an hour above their standard rate of pay for hours worked between March 29 and April 18.

“To recognize our associates' hard work, we’re providing a Hero Bonus — a $2 premium above their standard base rate of pay to hourly frontline grocery, supply chain, manufacturing, pharmacy and call centers,” a Twitter post on the company account read, accompanied by a video message from Chief People Officer Tim Massa.

To recognize our associates' hard work, we’re providing a Hero Bonus – a $2 premium above their standard base rate of pay to hourly frontline grocery, supply chain, manufacturing, pharmacy and call centers. Learn more: https://t.co/IBw5kyTXqZ pic.twitter.com/sBcrXfrUE5 — Kroger (@kroger) April 1, 2020

"Our associates have displayed the true actions of a hero, working tirelessly on the front lines to ensure everyone has access to affordable, fresh food and essentials during this national emergency," Kroger's chairman and CEO, Rodney McMullen, said in a statement.

Kroger also announced this week it has experienced a 30% nationwide surge in sales related to people flocking to grocery stores to stock up during the uncertain time. The company’s stock rose about 5% as a result, and the company said it will borrow $1 billion to increase cash reserves, citing the uncertainty of the economy.