The Illinois Heart and Lung Foundation is working with local partners to collect and distribute nonmedical masks to people who need them, especially now that businesses are starting to reopen.
The “Take Cover” initiative is taking donations of face coverings (or money to buy them) through June 22. The Illinois Heart and Lung Foundation (IHLF)’s partners include the Town of Normal police and fire departments, the Mclean County Health Department (MCHD), and more.
The goal is to supply masks to those who cannot get them themselves or are in vulnerable communities.
“Right now, the health department is assessing the needs… so they are reaching out to community agencies, they are also looking for community agencies to contact them,” said IHLF Executive Director Lisa Slater about the distribution of nonmedical masks.
There are many ways to help. You can donate face coverings, volunteer to sew face coverings, donate 100% cotton fabric, or help out financially with a donation. The IHLF website has more information.
“If people are wanting to hand sew or machine sew masks, they should follow the guidelines that we have for sewing them,” Slater said. “We want to make sure we are able to get face coverings that are in a variety of sizes.”
The four donation dropoff locations can be found on the IHLF website.
Slater said it’s important to remember that face coverings are not enough to slow the spread of coronavirus on their own. Washing your hands frequently and correctly along with social distancing and trying to remove yourself from overpopulated areas by staying at home are vital when it comes to protecting yourself from COVID-19.
We’re living in unprecedented times when information changes by the minute. WGLT will continue to be here for you, keeping you up-to-date with the live, local and trusted news you need. Help ensure WGLT can continue with its in-depth and comprehensive COVID-19 coverage as the situation evolves by making a contribution.