While some are venturing out into the world for the first time in months, others have been at it since the beginning, and not entirely by choice. Photographer Daniel Passapera chronicled the lives of essential workers in Connecticut and what they’re experiencing while the state is under lockdown.
His photographs and interviews provide a poignant snapshot of this bizarre time in our lives where everyone in the world is feeling the pains of this pandemic.
Cheshire resident Mark Venice, 18, works part-time at the local Big Y supermarket. When not at work he’s a normal college student trying to keep up with online classes. His father is considered at risk as he suffers from diabetes.
‘I do the best I can to protect myself from getting it,’ Venice said.
Though there are fewer shoppers as many adhere to the stay-at-home orders, Venice comes in contact with many daily. At the register, employees are required to wear gloves and a mask, wash their hands hourly as well as sanitize the payment terminal after every customer. All of which is done behind the safety of a glass barrier.
Venice, however, remains more cautious than worried and has taken this experience as a moment of self-reflection.
‘I learned to not take what you have [for] granted,’ he said. ‘I’m thankful I still have a job because I know a lot of people are being affected by this and a lot of people are losing their jobs.’