Staples and Scott Brands have joined the list of companies doing their part to aid essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Scott Brands has announced it will donate $500,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America to help support the families of essential workers helping the global community during the ongoing pandemic. The brand's commitment aims to help keep nearly 300 clubs open and provide emergency childcare services.

"Boys & Girls Clubs of America is committed to doing whatever it takes to support America's youth and their families as they navigate through the COVID-19 crisis," says Julie Teer, chief development and public affairs officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of America. "We are so thankful to the Scott Brand and Kimberly-Clark for standing together with us. Their support will allow us to maintain current Club operations and serve more kids and teens across the nation." 

Scott Brands is also encouraging social media users to thank essential workers on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram by using the #ThankAHero hashtag.

For its part, retailer Staples has partnered with Children's Miracle Network Hospitals to collect personal protective care equipment or donations that will be used to help local member hospitals lacking the proper equipment needed to properly treat COVID-19 patients. Donations of new, unused, unopened personal protective equipment such as N95 respirator face masks, disposable face masks, face-shield, eye protective wear, isolation or surgical gowns can be dropped off at participating Staples stores. All items donated will be shipped to the local Children's Miracle Network Hospital to help caregivers. Along with PPE donations, Staples is also accepting monetary donations at cmnh.co/staples.

"We are grateful for Staples’ help to ensure local children's hospitals have the resources they need. Kids can't wait to get treatment,” says Teri Nestel, interim president and chief executive officer, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. “When you donate personal protection equipment or funds through our partnership with Staples, CMN Hospitals are able to keep caregivers and kids safe during this crisis."

Staples and Scott Brands join other companies with COVID-19 relief efforts including Mattel, Unilever and Netflix.