THOMASVILLE — One of Thomasville’s newest industries purchased the first sponsorship for lodging by workers wanting temporary solace from the coronavirus.

Hampton Inn is offering at-cost lodging for people working in jobs in which they might be exposed to the virus.

Check-Mate, a new Thomasville industry, was the first corporate sponsorship.

“Check-Mate reached out to help, although they have not been here for long,” said Jeremy Emmett, Hampton Inn owner.

A postal worker, a nurse and physicians are lodging at the hotel

“They’re using local food delivery and taking advantage of time to relax,” Emmett said.

In initiating the concept, Emmett wanted to offer a place to stay for workers who wanted to protect their families from the possibility of virus contamination.

He said the lodging also is open to employees of businesses that are reopening.

“It will be open to any business as it’s allowed to reopen,” Emmett said.

Some employees might not want to return to work because of virus fears and need lodging to allay concerns about contact with family members, Emmett said.

He thinks businesses should reopen “smartly.”

Businesses that practice social distancing and other virus-related precautions will realize more successful reopenings in the long run, Emmett said.

More information about the lodging is available by calling the Hampton Inn at (229) 227-0040 or by emailing Emmett at jeremy.emmett@hilton.com.