With the parade of colorful lights, a line-up of giant pine trees filled with ornaments, and an array of people buying presents for their loved ones, it is undeniable that Christmas is one of the most festive season that we celebrate.
And although the true spirit of Christmas is all about peace, hope, and love. Still, it is irrefutable that it is also one of the most expensive holidays.
Expenses seem to double during the holiday season. Hence, receiving a Christmas bonus is a huge help, especially for workers who are living from paycheck to paycheck. After all, we all deserve to spoil ourselves and the people we love even a little during the season of giving.
For the 200 employees of FloraCraft, a company based in Ludington, Michigan, they will be celebrating Christmas with a big smile on their faces. The hardworking employees have just received a good news- their employer would be spending a total of $4 million for their Christmas bonus!
Yes! You have read it right! Believe it or not, Mr. Lee Schoenherr, the owner and chairman of FloraCraft decided to divide $4 million to his 200 employees as their well-deserved bonus. The 200 employees were not expecting the generous gift from their chairman and were stunned upon hearing about it during their holiday lunch.
The $4 million Christmas bonus would be divided based on the number of years that the employee rendered with the company. For instance, those who have been with the company for more than 4 decades could expect around $60,000 worth of Christmas bonus.
Each Christmas bonus will be received in two ways: in cash and as a special contribution to the 401(k) retirement account of their faithful employees. According to a spokesman of their company, the retirement gift for their employees will be fully-paid by the end of March 2020. This is due to the federal laws that govern an employer in proper contributions to their retirement programs. Due to this, it will take two years for Chairman Schoenherr’s gift to fully materialize on their retirement fund.
FloraCraft, a family-owned local company based in Ludington, Michigan, specializes in fabrication and supplying foams for display, special events, and crafts. The company has been around since 1946, and amazingly, it does not have a record of layoff in its 72 years of founding.
Because of their proven years in the industry, it is no longer surprising to know that some of their workers are already a second – and some- even third generation employees. The long stretch of years rendered by their faithful employees speak a lot about the company’s good relationship with them.
“This idea has developed over the past year and is my way of saying ‘Thank you’ to our team for the role they have had in our success,” Chairman Schoenherr explained, expressing his genuine gratitude to their employees. “My wife, Joan, and I are blessed in so many ways. We want to share these blessings with the men and women whose energy, passion and loyalty inspire us every day.”
Meanwhile, the employees who heard about the good news applauded and cheered in delight. More than the money, they are happy to know that their effort is being recognized and appreciated.
“It was very humbling,” Mary Overla, an assistant production supervisor working at FloraCraft said. “I started crying – it was huge for him to do something like that for everybody.”
“Our employees were beyond surprised – and deeply grateful of Mr. Schoenherr’s generosity,” Eric Erwin, FloraCraft’s CEO explained. “He wants to ensure our employees have resources available as immediate reward for their hard work, along with a nest that allows them to save, plan and prepare for their future security.”
Meanwhile, Chairman Schoenherr clarified that his generous gift for his faithful employees is not sign that he is selling the company he worked hard to build and sustain.
“Don’t think this means I’m exiting or selling the business – I love what I do and am committed to maintaining the independence of FloraCraft.” The generous and compassionate chairman firmly stated.
It is heartwarming to know that there are employers in the world who is not numb from the needs of their employees. The dedicated employees of FloraCraft are lucky to have Chairman Schoenherr as their employer- generous, kind, and appreciative!
Watch the inspiring video below and witness how the generous chairman made his employees happy when he made an announcement about their Christmas bonus!
Video | MLive