Mercer Health welcomes donations of community-made fabric masks

MERCER COUNTY — Mercer Health is welcoming the donations of unopened personal protective equipment and community-made fabric masks.

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Hospitals across the country are experiencing disposable mask shortages.

Donated fabric masks will help make certain there are masks readily available in the event that Mercer Health's current supply is diminished, the hospital said in a release.

All masks donated to Mercer Health will be laundered and processed to be prepared for use.

If you would like to help but do not have the material, bags including fabric, elastic, the pattern and sewing instructions are available to the community.

Pick up a bag at Mercer Health West Campus or call Karen Perts at 419-733-4069 and a bag os supplies will be brought to your home.

Considerations for sewing maks include:

• Use 100% cotton tightly woven fabric.
• Non-smoking homes only, please.
• Remember both men and women will be using these masks.
• Cloth ties may be used instead of elastic.
• Water repellent fabric is NOT required.
• Please do not make masks if you are ill.

Any excess masks collected will be distributed to other local organizations in need.

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The hospital encourages you to share photos on social media making fabric masks to build community spirit. Please tag Mercer Health and use #ThisIsMyHospital.