Eric Anderson reports in the Times Union that most of the few stores that remain open locally during the COVID-19 pandemic are hiring. Many of them are also paying workers more. Walmart plans to hire more than 3,750 workers across the state and 150,000 nationwide. That will increase the chain's workforce by 10 percent. Price Chopper/Market 32 has given employees a $1-an-hour raise through April 19 and wants to hire 2,000 new employees for 133 stores in six states. Hannaford is also paying more, and hiring more, though they can't say exactly how many they will be hiring. “To support demand, better serve customers and provide some relief to our store teams, Hannaford is hiring full and part-time associates at most of our 182 stores in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York," company spokesperson Erika Dodge said. "Our associates have gone above and beyond day in and day out to extend care to our customers and community. And, now we need to grow the team and expedite our efforts to hire and train new associates.” The new employees are to keep up with demand for food, and extra cleaning duties that are now keeping grocery store employees busy. Stop & Shop, ShopRite, Tops, Amazon, and Dollar General stores are also hiring. “For any individual whose job has been temporarily impacted by the effect of COVID-19, we currently have a number of full and part time positions available across our stores, distribution centers, and private fleet network,” Dollar General's website now says. The New York Times reports that delivery food services around the county are also hiring. Many grocery stores have changed their hours to allow more restocking and cleaning at night, and have also added seniors-only opening hours. Read more about this story in the Times Union.