Stay-at-home orders put in place because of the COVID-19 pandemic have had a terrible impact on those working in the hospitality industry. Hotels, restaurants, retailers, attractions and the businesses that serve them have seen revenue grind to a halt. More than 22,000 people work in Springfield’s hospitality industry and many of them have experienced reduced hours, furloughs or layoffs.

To help those affected by the crisis, the Convention & Visitors Bureau is introducing a Spring Travel Auction. During National Travel & Tourism Week (May 3-9), people are invited to bid on items provided by Springfield's tourism industry.

Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Mother's Industry Support Fund — a partnership between Mother's Brewing Company and the Community Foundation of the Ozarks designed to help unemployed hospitality workers in Springfield.