Indianapolis News and HeadlinesIndiana Coronavirus NewsCOVID-19 Economic Impact

Actions

Indianapolis virtual tip jar launches to help service workers during coronavirus closures

Leave a 'Venmo' or 'Cash App' tip for service industry workers without a job
Posted at 11:23 AM, Mar 17, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-18 10:52:55-04

INDIANAPOLIS — Over 1,200 people have already signed up for a 'virtual tip jar' list launched on Monday to help Indianapolis service workers that are out of a job for the next couple of weeks.

Jeb Banner, the founder and CEO of an Indianapolis-based company called "Boardable," started the "Indy Service Workers Venmo List" on Monday after Gov. Eric Holcomb ordered the closure of all Indiana bars and restaurants, only allowing carry-out and delivery options.

Central Indiana has about 83,000 hospitality workers, and every single one is projected to be impacted by the COVID-19 closures.

People in the service industry — servers, bartenders, baristas, hosts, barbacks, or back-of-the-house associates — are invited to add themselves to the list. Add your name, where you work, what you do, and your Venmo information.

Those who would like to "tip" can simply search the list and send money to the worker of your choice.

MORE | There's help for small businesses dealing with virus-related issues | Indianapolis distillery creates hand cleaner to help combat COVID-19 | Catering business provides food for people struggling as COVID-19 impacts everyday life | Q-AND-A: Top questions about Indy's new restrictions |