#StartupsVsCovid19: OYO Offers Free Stays To US Medical Practitioners

Indian hospitality unicorn OYO, on March 24, announced that it will offer free accommodations to all medical first responders  — doctors, versus and others — at any OYO Hotel in the US amid the coronavirus pandemic in the US.

Those on the front line of the battle against Covid-19 can call (+1) 628-213-7020 and use the code “OYO4FIRSTRESPONDERS” to get their reservation for the nearest OYO franchise hotel. The company has clarified that OYO Hotels will cover all the cost.

Ritesh Agarwal, founder and CEO of OYO, said that the company is grateful for the bravery and sacrifices made by the medical practitioners to restore the health of Covid-19 or coronavirus affected patients.

“OYO was founded on the principle that we all should Live the Good Life and whatever we can do to make the lives of these brave women and men a little better, OYO and our wonderful hotel partners want to do.  It is our responsibility to give back,” Agarwal said, in a press release.

After US President Donald Trump, OYO earned a word of appreciation from businesswoman, author and senior advisor to US President — Ivanka Trump, who is also the President’s daughter. On Tuesday, Ivanka took to Twitter to appreciate the steps taken by OYO. “These kinds of impactful acts of benevolence are what help keep this Nation and our world #TogetherApart,” She added.

Even digital payments unicorn Paytm’s founder and CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma could not hide his excitement on Twitter.

As the coronavirus pandemic has also hit India and is said to be heading towards Stage 3 of community transmission, OYO has offered to turn its hotel into quarantine centres for all suspected Covid-19 cases as well as those who have to compulsorily self-isolate themselves.

The idea was pitched in by a Twitter user who suggested OYO to tie-up with the Indian government to offer its hotels as backup quarantine centres. Agarwal responded saying the company is ready to take up the charge.

Immediately after the founders’ commitment, OYO reached out to the health departments in all state governments to offer its support and turn its wide network of hotels as makeshift quarantine facilities for travellers, which is mandated by any state or central government authorities. The company said the service would be offered at an affordable rate.

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