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Parkview Health concludes mask-making program

After receiving more than 40,000 cloth facemask donations, Parkview Health is concluding its mask-making program and encouraging community members to donate to other organizations in need.

In late March, Parkview organized its Make-a-Mask program to help conserve its supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) through the COVID-19 pandemic. Seven hundred fifty mask-making kits, which included directions and supplies, were distributed in just three days and the volunteer sewers returned 40,450 completed masks.

“We are truly overwhelmed by the community’s response to this program, and we can’t thank everyone enough for donating their time and talent to sew masks,” said Donna Van Vlerah, senior vice president, support division, Parkview Health. “Between the donated masks and other supply chain sources, Parkview has sufficient stock of cloth face masks at this time. As the pandemic continues, cloth masks will continue to be in-demand for everyone in our community, so we encourage volunteers to donate to other organizations who may need them.”

In April, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued guidance that recommended the use of cloth face masks or coverings in community settings to help slow the spread of COVD-19. A facemask or covering can help contain the wearer’s germs and prevent the spread of the virus before symptoms develop.

Following the CDC’s guidance, Parkview Health adopted a universal masking policy, which means all patients and co-workers must wear a face mask in patient care facilities. Patients are encouraged to bring and wear their own masks, but those who don’t have a mask will be given one upon arrival.

For masking-wearing guidance, visit Parkview.  com/masksafety.

For more information on COVID-19, including an interactive Symptom Checker, visit Park view.com/COVID19.