Heading into its second week, Your HERO. Our GUEST, a campaign designed by the bed & breakfasts of Prince Edward County to thank Ontario’s essential workers who’ve maintained the province’s frontline businesses and critical services during the pandemic, has received over 200 “hero” stories.
(Submitted Photo)
Running July 6-26, 2020, the initiative encourages Ontario residents to nominate a frontline worker who has had an impact on them or their community. Three lucky nominees – selected in a random draw from all entries received – will each be heading to Prince Edward County for a two-night, all-expenses-paid getaway for two. Nominators are eligible for a trip, too.
“Everyone knows one, a frontline COVID-19 hero,” said Karen Orme, co-owner of Runaway Rooster B&B, one of the organizers of the campaign and a co-founder, along with Susan Wallis, AWAY in the County, of the Bed & Breakfast Association of Prince Edward County. “They’re our grocery store workers, healthcare professionals, truck drivers, cleaners, manufacturers, and so on. The nomination stories we’re receiving really shine a spotlight on their bravery and selflessness over these last few months.”
The concept was created by Nancy Pavan, co-owner of the Wilfrid Boutique Farmhouse, shortly after tourism travel was shut down in March and many businesses like B&Bs were mandated to close as everyone went into self-isolation.
“The response to the idea of thanking the selflessness, and bravery, of essential workers has been overwhelming,” said Pavan. “From our bed & breakfasts in Prince Edward County and local businesses who have donated services and products to the initiative to the Ontarians nominating .”
Bed and breakfasts have a long-standing history as accommodation providers, and are known for their diverse styles of homes, interactive owner-hospitality, and sumptuous daily breakfasts.
In addition to thanking essential workers, the initiative shines a light on a renaissance that’s happening for bed and breakfasts.
“As more and more travellers seek out immersive tourism experiences, they’re rediscovering the unique accommodation and hospitality of bed and breakfasts,” noted Wallis. “Today’s B&Bs are not the doily-filled homes of the past. There’s a whole new generation of B&B owners, with beautiful, distinctive properties, bringing new energy, originality, and an incredible sense of style and hospitality to hosting and ensuring guests have an amazing, and inspiring stay.”
Full details about the Your HERO. Our GUEST campaign are available at https://www.bedandbreakfastpec.com/.
-Staff