LANSING, MICHIGAN - Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that June 17th would be Essential Worker Appreciation Day. Whitmer expressed her appreciation to all Michigan essential workers who worked throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am thankful for all of our essential workers for bravely stepping up throughout the pandemic to keep Michiganders safe and our economy running,” said Governor Whitmer.

Governor Whitmer has demonstrated her support for essential workers by launching the “Futures for Frontliners” program last year. Futures for Front Liners provide a tuition-free path to college or a technical certification to essential workers who do not have a degree.

“From staffing our hospitals to keeping our grocery store shelves stocked, essential workers selflessly served during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect the well-being of their fellow Michiganders. We all owe them a debt of gratitude.”

Whitmer also announced her support for a proposal called “Hero Pay.” Hero Pay was brought upon by Senator Marshall Bullock of Detroit and Representative Cynthia Neeley of Flint. Hero Pay would provide one-time payments to essential and frontline employees serving through the pandemic and keeping the state and Michiganders moving.

“The hundreds of thousands of folks who worked through the pandemic to keep the rest of us going embody what being a Michigander is all about: you care for your neighbors, you work hard, you get it done no matter the odds,” said Whitmer.