As the Coronavirus pandemic continues to escalate, part of the problem is that there aren’t enough medical protection products, both for citizens and healthcare workers. Many healthcare workers are being forced to reuse masks and other medical equipment while citizens are scrambling to find and create their own masks.
Unfortunately, the majority of the masks available today are manufactured in China. As China continues to struggle with the pandemic themselves, purchasing masks has become difficult, if not impossible, and many citizens are being forced to make them themselves.
This is where BlueCotton steps in.
We were recently contacted by Sheriff Brett Hightower of the Warren County Police in Kentucky when the police force was having difficulty finding any masks. While we traditionally sell custom and embroidered apparel, we did have the means to produce non-medical grade face masks. Therefore, we immediately accepted and the next day had a prototype ready and masks ready by the end of the week.
Sheriff Hightower said, “We are so appreciative of the BlueCotton team for stepping up to the challenge and donating these masks during this time of crisis. After contacting BlueCotton on Tuesday inquiring about their ability to produce masks for our officers in the field, Mike Coffey and his team came through with a prototype on Wednesday and will have our full order available on Friday.”
Upon realizing how we can help out with the pandemic, we plan to donate a sizable collection of non-medical grade face masks for first responders and also offer them for purchase on our website. As we have previously served local hospitals, first responders and even the military with our embroidery services, we’ll be here for them during the pandemic as well.
In addition to providing face masks for first responders and other community members, we also raised $10,000 to donate to local food banks here in Bowling Green by selling #TeamKentucky t-shirts after being inspired by Governor Beshear.
How Can You Help?
While we’re doing our best to provide the equipment that our first responders need, this pandemic will require the support of the full community. So how can you help first responders in need?
There are a number of charities dedicated to helping first responders, though we realize that with the rise in unemployment rates, not everyone is in a position to donate.
The best way you can help frontline responders is by staying home and being responsible.
Respect social distancing guidelines and only go outside when absolutely necessary. Even with a mask, you can still both contract and spread the virus, so be respectful of guidelines put in place. If you are sick, avoid going into the emergency room unless it’s a true emergency. Also, avoid hoarding supplies and purchasing medical-grade face masks. We will get through this together with the support of the cooperative community.