DEARBORN, Mich. (WXYZ) — The Henry Ford has announced temporary staffing and salary cuts amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Officials says the changes are "to help alleviate the long-term impact of the current economic downturn."
This limited employment change will take effect on Monday, April 6. All employees currently will be paid through April 5.
The institution will remain closed through May 31 as well.
The 90-year-old institution estimates, at minimum, a $10 million budget deficit for the 2020 year.
In an effort to protect all employees and work for the long-term, The Henry Ford is making changes to staffing in the interim that include temporary unpaid leaves for more than 80 percent of its staff or 1,400 employees. Those that remain on active status, will have their pay decreased on a scale from 10 to 25 percent based on their current salary.
A small number of staff designated to continue essential work on-site, such as members of security and animal care, will continue their work at no pay reduction.
“This unprecedented crisis is affecting each of us individually and The Henry Ford collectively,” said Patricia Mooradian, president and CEO of The Henry Ford. “While this time is painful for all of us, it is vital that our organization make these difficult decisions now to best position The Henry Ford for the future health and well-being of our team, our institution, our guests, our stakeholders and our community.”
All full-time employees placed on temporary leave will continue to receive health benefits throughout this period and The Henry Ford will fully fund all contributions towards that cost, the institution says.
Employees on temporary leave without pay are eligible to apply for unemployment assistance. The Henry Ford created a Talent & Culture Help Center to assist all staff during this time.
The Henry Ford closed its campus on March 13 to comply with State, Federal and CDC guidelines during the rapidly evolving coronavirus crisis.
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