Andrew Keller was stocking the shelves at Gene’s Health Food in a nearly empty store Monday. Keller, who is one of the owners at Gene’s grocery store and deli, said sales have gone down during the pandemic, but the store remains open to the community.
Gene’s has a menu focused on fresh, organic food as well as a selection of retail vitamins and locally grown produce.
“We find it as an obligation to the community to offer these supplements, as well was organic prepared food to people,” Keller said.
Many people are feeling stressed because of the financial strains of COVID-19, which is why Keller said it’s important for people to focus on their health and well-being.
“Personally I find our services very relevant in times like this,” he said. “It’s important for us to take care of ourselves not only mentally but give ourselves the right kind of nutrients to help our immune system work properly.”
Keller said vitamins C, D and Zinc as well as elderberries have been the most popular items sold at the store.
Like other small businesses, Gene’s was forced to cut store and staff hours. Keller said a few workers volunteered not to work. The deli is also closed to in-dining but take-out and delivery is still available.
“We’re doing fine, we’re healthy,” he said. “We have obviously four decades of experience in the community. So we’ve got a little following.”
—–
Click here for all of our coronavirus coverage.
The Owensboro Health coronavirus hotline is available 24/7 by calling 877-888-6647. Call the hotline before seeking in-person care. More information from OH can be found here.
For the latest information and data on COVID-19 in Kentucky visit kycovid19.ky.gov or dial the Kentucky state hotline at 800-722-5725.
For the latest health guidelines and resources from the CDC, visit their website here.
