Hearts for Heroes: A gratitude initiative during COVID-19

Published 12:53 pm Thursday, April 23, 2020

By Danielle Puleo

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Courtesy Town of Nags Head

The “Hearts for Heroes” initiative. Courtesy Town of Nags Head

Hearts displayed at Breynn Bailey’s residence in Manteo. Courtesy Town of Nags Head

Courtesy Town of Nags Head

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A small act of kindness started in Ormond Beach, Fla. has made its way up the coast to the Outer Banks.

The “Hearts for Heroes” initiative stemmed from a collective desire to show appreciation to those that are working on the front lines during this pandemic. The concept is to display a cut-out heart on a window/door of choice to show gratitude to those still serving their communities.

According to Roberta Thuman, public information officer for the Town of Nags Head, a post regarding the Hearts for Heroes idea was shared in a group comprised of public information officers nationwide.

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“The group is meant for sharing what other people are doing in their own towns to help PIOs,” Thuman said.

Recently, the group has offered several ideas to try and boost morale. “We get together and try to help each other out,” Thuman added, “especially through this pandemic.”

Since learning about Hearts for Heroes, the Town of Nags Head has promoted the initiative through their Facebook page to engage residents and activate participation.

Outer Banks local Breynn Bailey saw the post online and decided to run with it. “I thought it was a cute idea right now,” she said. Bailey and her husband have both served for fire departments; they are no strangers to front line work.

These yellow hearts can display messages of hope, appreciation or have no writing at all. They are meant for truck drivers, teachers, EMTs, grocery store workers, mechanics and everyone else stepping up to serve during COVID-19.

To learn more, visit the Town of Nags Head’s Facebook page. Nags Head has asked residents to email photos of their hearts to roberta.thuman@nagsheadnc.gov to be posted on the Town of Nags Head Facebook page.

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