JoAnn Fabrics is stepping up to support healthcare professionals amid the ongoing pandemic by offering free supplies for making protective masks. This initiative allows the public to contribute to the well-being of doctors, nurses, and first responders who are facing a critical shortage of masks, particularly N95s that are essential for safeguarding against the virus.
The Need for Protective Gear
As COVID-19 continues to escalate, frontline medical workers have found themselves with insufficient protective gear. Many have even had to resort to sanitizing and reusing masks, which contradicts CDC recommendations, while others have been forced to improvise with scarves or bandanas.
How to Get Involved
To enable participation while observing social distancing protocols, JoAnn Fabrics is providing ready-made mask kits available for curbside pickup at their stores. Once individuals have crafted the masks, they can return them to the same location for donation, ensuring they reach those in dire need.
Customers interested in this initiative can easily access JoAnn’s Ship-to-Home and Curbside Pickup services. Detailed tutorials and instructions for mask-making are available online at joann.com/maketogive. Furthermore, in compliance with local restrictions, JoAnn is opening in-store classrooms equipped with sewing machines and materials for anyone willing to help produce these critical items, thereby increasing the support for America’s hospitals.
Collection Points and Collaborations
Participating stores will serve as collection points for masks created at home, with all donations aimed at assisting medical facilities in overcoming their dwindling stock of protective gear. In addition, JoAnn Fabrics is collaborating with larger hospitals to provide necessary materials like fabric, elastic, and clear vinyl.
Designer Support
Recently, designer Marco Larson has offered his team’s assistance in addressing the mask shortage crisis, with a dedicated group of sewers ready to contribute to the cause. Their efforts will initially focus on producing masks for donation, with plans developing for larger-scale manufacturing as needed.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, JoAnn Fabrics is making a significant impact during this health crisis by providing free kits for mask-making, enabling the community to support healthcare workers while adhering to safety guidelines.