Locals make masks for Idaho health professionals

 

There is a shortage of face masks across the country. Idaho hospitals are fortunate to still have enough for now. But many other facilities have not been so lucky as health care centers have had their supply limited, and workers at essential businesses such as grocery stores have wished for masks but been unable to find them.

In Eastern Idaho, many people have banded together to sew masks for those in their community affected by the shortage. They have created a group called Idaho Falls Sewing Sisters. Dozens of people have stepped up to volunteer, and hundreds of masks have been made. The group currently has received requests for nearly 4,000 masks.

The Idaho Press reports, similar efforts are gaining steam in the Treasure Valley. A “Medical Mask Sewing Group” is making handmade masks. Founders have also started a GoFundMe page.

Once a volunteer has made a mask, they can drop them off at a list of drop-off areas the group has. After someone began stealing the masks, the group stopped publicly disclosing the drop-off areas.