Buncombe County Special Shopping Hours, Delivery Options for Vulnerable Populations

Buncombe County Government -- As Buncombe County continues to adapt to our community’s fast-changing needs to cope with the impact of the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, many stores are offering special hours reserved for vulnerable residents, including senior adults and those with underlying health concerns. In addition to special hours, several stores offer home delivery and curbside pickup (a fee may be required).

Many of these stores are fast-tracking the flow of products that are in highest demand, including food, medicine, and household essentials. During this time, there may be quantity limitations on in-demand items so more families and residents can find the products they need. The CDC recommends maintaining a two-week supply of medicines and groceries.

All residents are encouraged to stay home as much as possible and limit trips for groceries, medicines, and other essentials. If you must go out, stay at least six feet away from others at all times. Every face-to-face interaction is an opportunity for the coronavirus to spread and impact those at most risk. Staying at home is the most important way to slow the spread of the virus during this pandemic.

Updated on March 24 at 10:30 a.m.

Harris Teeter reserves 6-7am on Mondays and Thursdays for in-store shoppers age 60 and older. ExpressLane Online Shopping pickup times from 9am-2pm on Thursdays are reserved for these shoppers with the $4.95 fee waived (use code: SD60). Home delivery is also offered for seniors during these times for $5 (used code: SDDEL).

Ingles Markets reserves 7-8 a.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to senior shoppers, first responders, and those with compromised immune systems.

Publix Markets reserves 7-8 a.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for customers age 65 and older. Home delivery is available through Instacart.

Target reserves the first hour of shopping each Wednesday for vulnerable guests, including the elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying health concerns. Same-day delivery is available with a four-week free trial of Shipt (annual plan and pay-per-order delivery fees apply after trial).

Walgreens reserves 8-9 a.m. on Tuesdays for senior citizens, as well as their caregivers and immediate families.

Walmart opens one hour earlier on Tuesdays for customers age 60 and older. Pharmacies and Vision Centers are also open during this time. Curbside and in-store pickup is offered for free.

Whole Foods Market will serve customers who are age 60 and older one hour before opening to the general public every day. In-store pickup is offered.

For the latest local updates, visit Buncombe County’s COVID-19 information page. To connect with community resources, dial 211 or visit NC 211’s COVID-19 resource page.

If your store location offers special hours for vulnerable populations, please send an email to Chris Bubenik.

 
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Posted on Monday, March 23, 2020