The American Hotel and Lodging Association has announced a new initiative, called Hotels for Hope, in order to connect hotel properties nationwide with the healthcare workers and first-responders struggling to find temporary housing during the current international COVID-19 public health crisis.

Efforts to partner willing and available hotels with local government and healthcare efforts have already resulted in 6,500 properties being matched to nearby workers.

The goal is for these hospitality networks to assist government efforts, work with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), US Army CORPS of Engineers, and local emergency management and public health agencies. So far, communities have developed in Chicago and California, and are soon developing in New York City, Texas, and beyond.

“As an industry of people taking care of people, the hotel industry is uniquely positioned to support and help strengthen our communities and first responders who are on the frontlines of dealing with this ongoing public health crisis,” said Chip Rogers, AHLA president and CEO, in a press statement. “Hotels have always been an active member of our local communities, and this time is no different. AHLA, in partnership with our partner state associations, are proud to work on behalf of our member companies to facilitate partnerships with federal, state and local governments to support the health community during this critical time.”

Hotels interested in joining the Hotels for Hope initiative are encouraged to visit the AHLA website. The growing number of willing participants is heartwarming at an uncertain time in our collective international history.

“The number of hotels wanting to be part of the program is growing by the hour,” said Michael Jacobson, CEO and president of the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association, in a statement. “Our hotels are answering the call to action, and they want to be helpful to the city and the state.”

“‘Hotels for Hope’ is just one of the many ways that our hotels are helping those in need in our communities during this time of crisis,” added Kim Sabow, the president and CEO of the Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association. “We look forward to working with all interested parties, including local and state officials, and the federal government to find innovative solutions to make it through this critical time together.”

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