During the coronavirus quarantine, many companies and organizations have offered free resources, discounts, and promotional items to assist consumers facing financial uncertainty and restricted movement. These offers span various categories, including food and beverage, digital services, health and wellness, and even estate planning. The availability of these freebies varies, with some offers targeted specifically at healthcare professionals and college students, while others are accessible to the general public.
The following guide details the specific freebies and discounts available based on current reports. It covers complimentary food and drink options, extended digital trials for entertainment and fitness, financial and insurance benefits, and travel accommodations. Additionally, it includes resources for families and individuals seeking educational materials or creative outlets during their time at home.
Food and Beverage Offers
Restaurants and food delivery services have introduced numerous promotions to support customers during the quarantine period. These range from free delivery on orders to complimentary food items for healthcare workers and the general public.
Delivery Fee Waivers and Discounts
Several food delivery platforms and restaurant chains have waived delivery fees or offered free delivery on orders: * UberEats: The delivery service is waiving delivery fees for independent restaurants and offering contactless delivery options. * Chipotle: Free delivery is available on orders over $10 through March 31 via their website or app. * Pollo Tropical: This Miami-based chain offers free delivery on all app and website orders through April 3, with no minimum purchase required. * Red Lobster: Free delivery is available on website orders over $30 through March 29. This offer cannot be combined with other promotions. * KFC: Free delivery is offered through April 26 via the KFC website, Grubhub, or Seamless. * Moe’s Southwest Grill: Orders over $10 placed through the app or website receive free delivery until April 30.
Complimentary Items for Healthcare Workers and the Public
Specific promotions are available for medical professionals, and general freebies are accessible with or without a purchase: * Circle K: Individuals with a valid ID can receive a free coffee, fountain drink, or tea. No purchase is necessary. * DoorDash: Medical professionals can sign up for a free DashPass, which includes free delivery and reduced service fees from participating restaurants. * Krispy Kreme: Healthcare professionals can receive a free dozen glazed doughnuts every Monday through May 12 by presenting their hospital badge. On Saturdays, the general public can get a free dozen doughnuts with the purchase of a dozen. * Iced Tea Promotion: A free iced tea is available through June 10 for military personnel, medical professionals, and law enforcement. No purchase is required.
Digital Entertainment and Educational Resources
To alleviate boredom and support remote learning, various companies have expanded free access to digital content, e-books, and educational tools.
Streaming and Reading Materials
- Amazon: Offers a selection of free eBooks for download. Additionally, a 2-month free trial of Kindle Unlimited is available for access to a larger library.
- Explore.org: Provides a wide collection of nature livestreams, including feeds of puppies, bald eagles, and pandas.
- JK Rowling: The author is publishing chapters of her new fairy tale, The Ickabog, free online.
- Loom: This video recording and sharing service is now free forever for students and teachers using Loom for Classroom. The free plan has removed recording limits, and trials have been extended to 30 days.
Fitness and Wellness
- Peloton: The app free trial has been extended to 90 days, granting access to exercise classes without purchasing the bike.
- Daily Burn: Offers a 60-day free trial with classes including yoga, barre, HIIT, flexibility, and strength training.
- System of Strength: Provides a 30-day free trial for online classes that mix strength and cardio training.
Health, Insurance, and Financial Assistance
Financial and health-related services have also stepped in to provide support, offering everything from free life insurance to estate planning documents.
- Life Insurance: A free $25,000 life insurance policy is available.
- Estate Planning: A free complete Will-Based Estate Plan is offered for individuals and their spouses.
- Verizon: Offers discounts to nurses and teachers. Medical professionals already have access to discounts through Verizon.
Travel and Lodging
For healthcare workers and first responders traveling for work, several companies have provided free or discounted lodging and travel options.
- Hilton: Pledged to donate 1 million rooms to first responders and medical professionals through May 31.
- Delta: Offers free flights to Georgia, Louisiana, Michigan, and New York for medical volunteers.
- Airbnb: Provides options for staying close to patients and allows users to register a home as an Airbnb rental for healthcare workers.
- Spot Club: Through May 12, individuals can join the Spot Club for free and use the code “HHERO6918” for free parking at facilities.
- Rooms for Responders: Offers free rooms for first responders in major cities.
Creative and Crafting Resources
For those looking for a creative outlet, free digital files are available for crafting projects.
- Quarantine SVG Files: Free SVG cut files are available for use with Cricut machines or other cutting machines. These files can be used to create items such as T-shirts, tote bags, and tumblers. One specific resource mentioned is a "Quarantine Coordinator" file.
Conclusion
The range of freebies and discounts available during the quarantine is extensive, covering essential services, entertainment, and personal finance. Offers are frequently updated, with specific deadlines for food delivery and free trials. Consumers, particularly healthcare workers and students, are encouraged to verify eligibility requirements and expiration dates directly with the providers.