Set aside for seniors

We all find ourselves in constraining circumstances during this coronavirus epidemic, but that is no reason that we cannot act like civilized, caring human beings. Hoarding with a “me first” attitude of fear seems to be the norm, leaving shelves bare for those not able to “get there first.”

I, like so many in our community, am older, live alone, and although I do drive, am disabled. Therefore I propose the following: that all grocery stores in our various communities set aside an equitable amount of hard-to-find products like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, laundry soap, disinfectant wipes, etc., in a “seniors only” space available throughout the day, for purchase only by those 65 (70?) and older, with proof of age or by proven proxy, and no more than two of each product being bought at one time.

Making a daily hour available only to this group when the stores open, usually at 6 a.m., the store having been restocked overnight, is one answer. Unfortunately many of the elderly cannot attend at that early time, for a variety of reasons, and again will be left out.

It seems that the best answer is for the stores to keep such needed products, adequately stocked, in this “seniors’ space.” Otherwise this group of older citizens is being penalized for what would seem an attitude by the stores of wanting only profit rather than community service.

I hope the stores will arrive at a consensus of how to help our total population in a fair and equitable way. We all contribute to our communities in one way or the other. I challenge the stores to contribute, as well, in the spirit of togetherness, fairness, and support.

RAY MOORE

Little Rock