As you probably know, UMass Memorial is giving an Appreciation Bonus for all the hard work done by caregivers during the COVID surge. Many SHARE members were surprised and pleased when they heard about the bonus. It’s the right thing to do, and not a small amount of money when you add it up for all the employees. COVID continues to be incredibly hard for everyone, and the hospital is trying to recognize what people are going through, and show their appreciation.
In the memo about the bonus, Dr. Dickson explained, “We recognize that this bonus does not compensate you for all that you did during the peak of the crisis – especially for those who directly cared for COVID-19-positive patients.”
This bonus is not considered hazard pay, which SHARE members deserve. (SHARE continues to follow bills containing hazard pay in both Congress and the State House – there’s still hope.)
The amount of the Appreciation Bonus is $500 for full-time employees (people with 32-40 budgeted hours on the books), and $250 for people with up to 31 hours/week on the books. Remember, that’s the amount before taxes. Bonuses get taxed extra – just as they do when SHARE members get a retro check after negotiations if an agreement isn’t reached before the end of a contract.