NEW YORK – In an unprecedented move aimed at fostering serendipitous romantic connections, the Department of Tenderness (DOT) has launched a bold new initiative: the Deliveryman/Plumber/Mailman Romance Incentive Program (DPMRIP). The program, introduced as part of New York City’s ongoing efforts to encourage organic, everyday moments of affection, is designed to increase the frequency of encounters between single New Yorkers and their favorite local service workers.
The initiative offers financial incentives, training, and scheduling flexibility for delivery drivers, plumbers, and mail carriers who express an interest in participating. Their goal? To gently facilitate those "just dropped by" moments of spontaneous connection with the residents of New York, all while maintaining a high level of professionalism.
"We noticed that New Yorkers are craving real-life moments of affection, and we wanted to tap into the charm of everyday encounters," said Commissioner of Tenderness, Melody DeMarco. "The program pays homage to timeless romance scenarios like a delivery person knocking on the door at just the right moment or a plumber making an unexpected visit during a storm, bringing warmth to an otherwise ordinary day."
While the program clearly references popular tropes seen in romantic comedies and other forms of media, officials stress that it remains fully professional and consensual. "This is about sparking genuine connections, not about playing out fantasies," added DeMarco. "Participants will follow strict guidelines to ensure these moments of connection feel natural and respectful."
DPMRIP is a voluntary program for delivery drivers, plumbers, and mail carriers who have undergone specialized training by the Department of Tenderness’s new "Encounter Dynamics" unit. The training covers topics such as non-verbal communication, subtle romantic cues, and how to gracefully withdraw if a connection does not emerge.
Participants are also taught how to foster conversation about ordinary, day-to-day topics—like the delivery of a package or the fixing of a kitchen sink—that can evolve into moments of shared understanding or humor.
"Sometimes, all it takes is a kind word, a smile, or a perfectly timed knock at the door to brighten someone's day," said Chief Encounter Officer, Charles Hastings, who oversees the training. "We hope this program not only helps people connect romantically but also reminds them of the kindness and humanity behind everyday services."
Service workers who opt into the program will be eligible for time-based bonuses when moments of connection are reported by participating households. In addition to financial incentives, program members will receive specially designed DPMRIP uniforms that maintain the recognizable elements of their existing attire but with added touches of warmth, like a small heart-shaped patch embroidered discreetly on the sleeve.
Residents, meanwhile, can sign up for the program online, where they will be matched with service workers who share their postal code. Homeowners will also receive tips on how to create welcoming environments, like opening doors with a smile or offering a beverage. Participants can even choose from several tiers of engagement, ranging from "Friendly Chat" to "Slightly Flirtatious," to ensure the level of connection is comfortable for all parties.
Early feedback from test neighborhoods has been overwhelmingly positive. "I never imagined I’d feel a spark when the mailman handed me my bills," said Jessica Rivera, a resident of Jackson Heights who participated in the pilot. "But there was something about the way he smiled and asked about my day that really made me pause and appreciate the moment."
Other participants emphasized the joy in re-discovering simple, face-to-face interactions. "In a world that feels increasingly digital and disconnected, this program brings back the thrill of human connection," said Brandon Liu, a Brooklyn resident who experienced an unexpectedly delightful conversation with his plumber during a routine sink repair.
The Department of Tenderness plans to expand the program across all five boroughs in early 2025. While initially focused on delivery, plumbing, and mail services, there are talks of incorporating other service-based professions such as electricians, dog walkers, and even food delivery cyclists.
"We’re thrilled to see the potential for unexpected romance on every corner," said Mayor Sarah Goodman. "New York has always been a city of chance encounters, and the DPMRIP is a way to amplify that energy."
