We are welcoming donations of homemade fabric masks from our community as we continue our response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most hospitals are facing shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) right now, and other medical facilities have put out similar calls for help in recent days.

According to the CDC, fabric masks are a crisis response option when other supplies have been exhausted. We have implemented stringent conservation measures to sustain our existing supply of PPE and currently have adequate supplies, but want to mobilize the support of our community now to prevent any possibility of running low or running out. Donations can be made daily at the NCH loading dock, behind the hospital off Vesper Lane, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

“Prior to modern disposable masks, washable fabric masks were standard use for hospitals,” said Dawn Rogers, MSN, RN, FNP-C, Patient Safety & Infection Prevention Office.  “We will be able to sterilize these masks and use them repeatedly as needed.  While it’s less than ideal, we want to do our best to protect our staff and patients during this pandemic.” 

Details about making/delivering fabric masks for our staff

• The pattern is courtesy of The Turban Project*
• Use tightly-woven cotton fabric on both sides.  
• Please remember that both women and men in a variety of roles may wear these masks. 
• When your masks are complete, please drop them off at the NCH loading dock, behind the hospital off Vesper Lane, daily between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.
• Collected masks will be immediately sent to laundry/processing to be prepared for use. 
• Any surplus masks will be distributed to other organizations in need.

HOW TO MAKE A FACE MASK PDF