Employees protest at Jo-Ann Fabric, ask corporate to consider ‘people over profit’

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- This morning, seven employees stood in front of a Jo-Anne Fabric and Craft store in Stetson Hills to protest their working conditions amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The employees held signs saying: "We deserve better" and "Our health over their profit." Two employees, Jessica Defronzo and Ashley Mangin, say they believe Jo-Anne offers a nifty but non-essential service.

"We don’t, you know, provide food or necessities and most of our customer base is an at-risk population," said Mangin. "We're really trying to keep our community safe."

Amanda Hayes, Manager of Corporate Communications at Jo-Ann says, "JOANN is strictly following all CDC and local guidelines for social distancing and occupancy, and have offered Team Members Leave of Absence options, increased sanitization and cleaning materials, and other allowances to help them feel comfortable and safe in the store. The safety and wellbeing of our customers and Team Members is always our highest priority."

According to the company's website, Jo-Ann has reduced their hours and is offering curbside pick-up as a way to protect customers and employees.

If you believe working conditions are unsafe or unhealthful, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends you bring the conditions to your employer's attention, if possible. You can visit their website here.