Minnesota hotels sign up to help health care workers, first responders during COVID-19 pandemic

The Millenium Minneapolis Hotel on Nicollet Mall typically accommodates guests who are traveling for business or leisure.

But now, it’s one of several Twin Cities hotels opening its doors and offering special rates to healthcare workers, first responders and others impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

A standard guest room at the Millenium typically goes for about $159.00 a night, but the special rate for medical providers and first responders is $69.00.

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Liz Rammer, the president and CEO of Hospitality Minnesota, says area hotels can offer a safe and comfortable place to those who are trying to limit exposure as part of a nation-wide program knows as "Hospitality for Hope."

"There are lots of scenarios," she said. "Some are first responders who may need a safe place to stay away from their families while they work."

Rammer says the hotel industry has lost nearly 60,000 jobs, so many businesses are forced to rework their business models.

"We are trying to figure out how to do business in new and different ways and respond to community need," Rammer said.

According to the American Hotel and Lodging Association, more than 250 Minnesota hotels have signed up to provide lodging for health care workers and emergency responders or to be used as alternative care sites for area hospitals. Nationwide, 15,000 hotels are participating in "Hospitality for Hope."