Highmark Health has created a $5 million “Heroes Appreciation Program” to help offset personal or family expenses incurred by Allegheny Health Network frontline hospital employees as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and in recognition of their work and dedication to patients and the community.

The one-time payments will be distributed to eligible frontline hospital employees during the upcoming pay period. About 12,000 AHN employees will receive payments under the program.

The awards will be directed to caregivers, such as nurses, medical assistants, therapists, technicians and social workers, as well as to “unsung heroes” such as environmental services professionals, dietary services workers, maintenance staff, and others who are responsible for keeping hospitals safe, clean and operational.