California is currently in the second phase of a methodical four-step process in order to reach an eventual full reopening. Stores that are beginning to open given that they are meeting all other safety protocol requirements include clothing stores, bookstores, florists, and sporting goods stores, while businesses that are noted as being higher-risk such as hair salons, dine-in restaurants, offices, and gyms are said to be opened at a later time.
For the establishments that have been open during these trying times, many are offering special shopping hours to older adults and those who are most vulnerable to health complications as a result of COVID-19. Given the current guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, older adults are urged to stay home and away from crowded public spaces.
The following retailers have announced special shopping hours. Please confirm with your local locations regarding the times listed below and check with your state or county website for more information on official guidelines and openings.
Acme Markets: Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. is reserved for seniors and high-risk shoppers.
Albertsons/Safeway: Tuesdays and Thursdays between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. are reserved for shoppers who are 60 years old and older, pregnant women, and other vulnerable populations including those with compromised immune systems.
Balducci’s: The first hour of shopping each day is reserved for seniors and high-risk shoppers.
Big Lots: The first hour of shopping each day is reserved for seniors and high-risk shoppers.
Big Y: Between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. is reserved for shoppers over the age of 60 and those with compromised immune systems.
Bi-Lo: Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. is reserved for seniors and high-risk shoppers.
BJ’s Wholesale Club: Monday through Saturday between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. is reserved for shoppers over 60. Sundays between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. are reserved for first responders and healthcare workers.
Cardenas: The first hour of shopping each day is reserved for seniors 65 older and first responders.
Clark’s Nutrition: As of March 19, he local chain, with various locations in Chino, Loma Linda, Rancho Mirage and Riverside, will open between 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. for seniors and those who have a disability prior to opening to the general public after 9 a.m.
Costco: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 8 a.m and 9 a.m. are reserved for shoppers 60 and older. The food court will keep its regularly scheduled operating hours, but the pharmacy will also be open during the reserved hour.
Dollar General: The first hour of shopping each day is reserved for seniors.
Erewhon: All locations are open between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. to seniors and those with compromised immune systems.
Fry’s: Locations are open Monday through Thursday between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. to shoppers who are 60 and older.
Gelson’s: Reserved shopping hours from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. for those who are 60 and older. ID may be required.
Gelson’s Markets: Starting March 18, people 65 and over can shop from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. The rest of the general public can start shopping at or after 8 a.m.
Stater Bros.: As of March 26, markets will open from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. for seniors who are 65 and over. Temporary operating hours to the general public are between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Target: The first hour of shopping every Tuesday and Wednesday is reserved for seniors over the age of 60 and customers with compromised immune systems. Opening hours vary by location.
Trader Joe’s: The first hour of shopping each day is reserved for seniors over the age of 60 and customers with disabilities.
Vallarta Supermarkets: As of March 18, all locations are between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. for seniors 65 years old and over, pregnant women and people with disabilities.
Walgreens: Every Tuesday is seniors day, with all-day discounts and senior-only shopping between the hours of 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. This hour is also accessible for caregivers and immediate family members prior to opening up to the general public after 9 a.m.
Walmart: Beginning March 24 through April 28, shoppers 60 and older can shop one hour before the store opens to the public every Tuesday, including its pharmacies and vision centers. Store hours are 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Whole Foods: As of March 18, the first hour of shopping each day is reserved for seniors 60 years old and older before the store opens to the general public. Check with your local location for specified store hours.
WinCo Foods: As of March 21, Tuesdays and Thursdays between 6 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. are reserved for shoppers who are 60 years old and older, other vulnerable populations and WinCo employees.
To connect with others who have or are impacted by PF:
Join our online forum, and attend our virtual support groups on Zoom.
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