No Frills grocery stores have also decided to help those that need it most during the pandemic

Some stores will dedicate the first hour of operations to vulnerable shoppers to beat the crowds

Shoppers Drug Mart is taking steps to help seniors and other vulnerable shoppers get what they need amid the pandemic

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Shoppers Drug Mart is doing its part to help those most at risk of COVID-19.

An email from the company admits many Canadians have resorted to panic buying, with many stores left with bare shelves, long lines and hundreds of customers crammed in various aisles.

1/2 Starting this week, Shoppers Drug Mart is dedicating the first opening hour of shopping at our stores to our customers who need assistance or consideration, including seniors and people living with disabilities. — Shoppers Drug Mart (@ShopprsDrugMart) March 17, 2020

While the company reiterates there is no need to stockpile as there is no food shortage, some vulnerable shoppers are being left with nothing or are not able to make it into busy stores.

As a result, Shoppers Drug Mart has announced some of its stores will dedicate the first hour of shopping to seniors and “those who need assistance or consideration” in order to beat the crowds.

That includes people living with disabilities or those who have underlying health considerations.

The Seniors Day discount of 20 per cent will also be used every day, during the first hour of operation.

2/2 We encourage you to check with your local store to confirm operating hours. Shoppers Drug Mart will also offer the 20% Seniors Day discount on regular priced items for the first hour each day every day. This is in addition to Seniors Days each Thursday. — Shoppers Drug Mart (@ShopprsDrugMart) March 17, 2020

Shoppers is also promising not to “take advantage” of the pandemic by raising prices.

Shoppers is not the first place to go with this initiative. No Frills grocery stores have also decided to help those that need it most during the pandemic.