As confirmed COVID-19 cases began spreading across the state and in the Fayette County area in March, Fayette County Homemakers had concerns about the shortage of face masks for health care workers.  Based upon direction from the CDC, a pattern for making face masks was adopted and volunteers went to work making masks. After supplying local hospitals with over 500 masks, it was quickly realized that hundreds of masks were needed to protect other citizenry.  Word spread to more than a dozen Homemakers, who all began making masks, donating materials or sourcing materials, which were quickly becoming hard to find.   After sewing the masks, the volunteers launder them and place them in individual quart size plastic bags to ensure they stay clean. To date, 1140 masks have been provided to seniors, migrant workers and churches in addition to first line providers. One volunteer set a basket out on her front porch with masks for all who a need for one.  According to Independent Sector, Kentucky volunteer work is valued at $21.42 per hour with this community project valued at $12,209.40.   

 “Making and giving masks was my way of fighting back and doing something about the pandemic.”  “It’s an opportunity for us to give back, and a vital and important way for us to do.”