Mason resident Todd Ashworth, who delivers for restaurants via the DoorDash and Grubhub apps, said delivery work is often paying more now than prior to the coronavirus pandemic.
Ashworth, adult education teacher in Ingham and Clinton counties, is relying on that work now with his teaching duties suspended.
“People are more appreciative and they are tipping more now,” he said. “From the very beginning of the quarantine, the delivery apps took precautions and added functions like no contact deliveries.”
Ashworth estimates he makes 20-30% more now than prior to the stay-at-home order put in place to combat COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.
“Before, in slow days, I would make about $20 an hour. Now I am making from $25 to $35 per hour,” he said.
Ashworth said his deliveries don’t require contact with customers. He leaves food at the customer’s door, takes a photo and texts it to the customer.
He said he often gets messages back appreciating the service and the steps to promote social distancing.
Ashworth said the delivery apps are working to keep their drivers safe. He said delivery drivers can request hand sanitizer through the apps.
“I think by going out, you put yourself at high risk,” he said. “But being cautious about it and following the guidelines from both DoorDash and Grubhub for public places minimizes the risk.
“Whenever I have a chance to wash my hands, I do it. I sanitize my hands before and after picking up the food or leaving the food on the doorstep of the customer’s house,” he said. “I wipe the bag that I used right after the delivery is completed so the next customer will be safe.”
Ashworth said restaurant workers also are promoting no contact services.
“Some restaurants have notes to call rather than going in to pick up. When you make a call, they ask the customer’s name, and if it’s ready, they will take it out for you,” he said.