Amid coronavirus, volunteer has made more than 500 deliveries to seniors

Credit: AJC

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution would like to thank all of the people who aren't able to work from home during the Covid-19 outbreak. We appreciate their sacrifice. (Photos by AJC staff, Video by Tyson Horne)

For almost 25 years, a New Jersey man has started his days by delivering newspapers as a side gig. But due to the coronavirus outbreak, Greg Dailey had to close his frame shop, so his daily route has become his main focus, CNN reports.

That inspired Dailey to go above and  beyond for the senior citizens in his community in East Windsor, New Jersey.

Since the outbreak began, Dailey has made more than 500 trips to the store for senior citizens in his community, bringing them groceries and essential supplies so they don’t have to go out amid the pandemic.

According to the Washington Post, in March, Dailey included a note with the newspapers he delivered.

"My name is Greg Dailey and I deliver your newspaper every morning. I understand during these trying times it is difficult for some to get out of their house to get everyday necessities. I would like to offer my services free of charge to anyone who needs groceries, household products, etc. I will be shopping at ShopRite and (McCaffrey's) and can deliver the goods directly to your front door," the note read, according to the Post.

Dailey, 50, and his daughter, Erin, have been averaging about 10 deliveries a day. People in the community contact Dailey via email, if possible, and fill out a spreadsheet with what they need from the store.

Then, the father-daughter duo organize their orders for the day and do their shopping. According to CNN, Dailey calls when he’s on his way to drop off, then delivers the goods to a driveway or front door — wherever is most convenient.

Dailey picks up a check for the cost of the goods, but not a penny more.

Although, he told CNN he is generally a shy person, it’s been his way to give back to his community amid the hardships of the last couple months.

"I thought it would slow down, but I am still getting new people," he told CNN. "A lot are really scared to go out. I've told them, 'As long as you need me, I'm going to be here.'"