From Stafford County:
In anticipation of a shortage of protective masks, Stafford County is asking for the public’s health in securing masks. The call for masks is two-pronged: businesses that have masks they are not using can donate them, and sewists are asked to sew masks. Additionally, Stafford is collaborating with Team Rubicon, a veterans group that assists with disaster relief to community source-critical items, including masks.
“We are asking for the public’s health in securing masks to help our fireman, deputies and community health partners. They anticipate a shortfall of masks until the supply chain catches up,” said Chairman of the Stafford Board of Supervisors Meg Bohmke, Falmouth District. “If you are a business and have masks, you are not using, or if you are a seamstress who can sew masks, we are asking for you to consider donating during this critical time.”
Businesses that have extra N95 masks or other commercial masks are asked to donate them. Donations are being accepted at the central warehouse established by Stafford at the Fire and Rescue Training Center at 1326 Courthouse Road, Stafford, VA 22554. Donations may be delivered between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Team Rubicon and members of public safety will pick up any masks also. You may ask for pickup by emailing [email protected].
If sewing a mask, please remember there are multiple designs available online but only the ones that follow the Centers for Disease Control recommendations on home-made masks should be used. According to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/ppe-strategy/face-masks.html, homemade masks should ideally be used in combination with a face shield that covers the entire front (that extends to the chin or below) and sides of the face. We ask that you use close-knit natural fabrics. The masks may be dropped off at the Fire and Rescue Training Center. As well, if sewists need a pickup, please email [email protected].
