Even with confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus on the decline, one local health system is hoping sewing buffs heed the call.
Erie Shores Healthcare has asked those people who have been providing them with masks to continue doing so, even as the number of cases goes down locally and businesses begin reopening.
The hospital is hoping for about 1,000 new masks a week, for patients as well as those who visit the Leamington campus.
"Our community has been fabulous, and we cannot say how thankful we are for their support," said ESHC spokesman Arms Bumanlag. "But we need more help. We need these masks for our patients in our care, and people coming to ESHC."
Hospital staff will not use the donated masks, since they have a certain kind of mask they are already required to use. The health system is also asking people who have been using their own masks to leave them at home.
"As per our infection control practitioner, we want people to use our masks when they arrive, the donated masks will be fully sterilize and the patient gets to keep the mask," said Bumanlag.
If you'd like to help out by sewing masks, the hospital requests using a clean, dark-coloured polyester fabric for the outside of the mask. Total cotton material can also be used if polyester is not readily available.
Place your completed masks in a plastic bag and drop them off at the staff entrance of the hospital, off Fader Street. Dropoffs can be done every day between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. You may optionally provide your contact information, which the hospital will only use to give thanks for the donation.
Complete information on ESHC's battle against COVID-19 can be found on its official website.
