'Our Community Can Be Very Proud Of Her': University Place Hero

UNIVERSITY PLACE, WA — As the coronavirus outbreak spread across the country, thousands of everyday heroes stepped up to help their communities in a time of crisis. We all know someone who's making a difference right now, making our days a little brighter as we push forward into an uncertain future. Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize those everyday heroes who are giving it their all.

This submission comes from Frank Erickson of University Place, who nominated Tamara Engle for her selfless work helping Frank and his wife stay safe.

Name of the nominee:
Tamara Engle

Is the nominee considered an "essential worker"?
Yes

What does the nominee do for work?
'Team Member' at grocery store

Why do you believe the nominee should be recognized or honored?

Last month Tami Engle waved me over as I was walking through the neighborhood. We know Tami as we shop at the Trader Joe's where she works. She remembered that I had mentioned my wife's immune deficiency. She asked me if we would allow her to do the grocery shopping for us, in order to protect my wife's health. Tami has done our shopping several times, now, and we look forward to her visits when she delivers the groceries.

She does not have to do this. It is not a part of her job. She does it willingly, and in the spirit of being a good neighbor. In her words, "I love all the customers [at T.J.'s] who come in to shop for others who can't or shouldn't shop for themselves, it is the way a community should be!"

What's one thing you want everyone to know about your hero?
Tami Engle is a true 'Local Hero' for us, and we think that everyone in our the community can be very proud of her and her spirit of good neighborliness. She has a great sense of humor, as well.

Thank you for all you do, Tamara!

>> Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here.