By Extending a Helping Hand
In response to the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, Zeus, a temporary-housing startup with backing from Airbnb, has stepped forward to offer support to displaced students and healthcare workers. Leveraging its platform, Zeus is providing discounted temporary housing options in major metro areas, including San Francisco, Boston, New York, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Washington, DC.
A Gesture of Support
With over 2,400 apartments available on its platform, Zeus is offering a $1,000 discount on the first month’s rent to both students affected by campus closures and healthcare workers. Through discount codes such as “UNI1000” for college students and “HEALTH1000” for healthcare workers, the company aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by those on the front lines of the pandemic.
Meeting Increased Demand
Since the outbreak of the coronavirus, Zeus has experienced a significant surge in demand, with search volumes reaching levels four times higher than usual. CEO Kulveer Taggar noted that the company initially observed bookings from Harvard students, which subsequently expanded to include students from other campuses as closures became more widespread. Responding to this surge in demand and the growing uncertainty, Taggar took to social media to share discount codes, reaching out to over 130 universities in areas where Zeus operates.
A Student’s Testimonial
One Georgetown University senior, facing uncertainty after campus closures, found refuge in Zeus’s housing options. Fearing the impact of returning to China on their future immigration prospects, the student explored alternative housing solutions. With limited options and time constraints, Zeus emerged as the most affordable and accommodating choice, allowing the student to move in earlier than planned. Currently paying approximately $3,500 per month, the student plans to reside with Zeus for two months.
Distribution of Discount Usage
Among students availing of the discount, a significant portion resides in San Francisco, followed by Seattle, Washington, DC, and other major cities. This initiative underscores Zeus’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations amidst the ongoing pandemic, providing much-needed assistance to students and healthcare workers facing unprecedented challenges.
A Beacon of Hope
In these uncertain times, initiatives like Zeus’s discounted housing offer serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of collective action and compassion in confronting global crises. As communities come together to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, acts of solidarity and support play a crucial role in fostering resilience and unity. Through its efforts, Zeus exemplifies the spirit of empathy and cooperation, extending a helping hand to those in need during these trying times.
