FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 14th, 2020

After just 1 month, the Guelph Tool Library Merry Mask Makers program has distributed over 100 mask making kits to  over 75 volunteers, and have distributed upwards of 800 of the 1000 completed masks to organizations and individuals in need. 

The Guelph Tool Library received funding from the Guelph Community Foundation and United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin through a partnership with the Church of the Apostles in June 2020. This allowed them to provide their first round of kits to volunteers. Since then, they have received community donations, as well as contributions from the Guelph Community Health Centre and the Guelph Police Services Board. These additional funds will allow the organization to assemble and distribute a second and third round of kits to volunteers, and the GTL has pushed their goal to 1500 masks by the end of July

 

They will also provide training videos with different mask patterns, which have been made available on Youtube. The kits include pre-washed, pre-cut masks, as well as the necessary notions to complete them. Each kit contains the supplies for making between 12 and 14 masks. 

 

They are in search of additional volunteers to help sew the masks and make deliveries. For volunteers with sewing experience but no access to a sewing machine, they have a few available that can be borrowed on request. Kits will be available on a rolling basis as long as materials are available.

 

The completed masks will include care cards that display the fibre content, and instructions for how to wash and wear the masks safely. They are designed to be washed by hand or machine and can withstand high heat and sanitizing cycles in washers and dryers.There are two different types of surgical-style masks available; elastic loops that fit around the ear, and cloth ties that tie around the head. There are sizes available for adults, teens and children of all ages.  

 

Program coordinator Stephanie Clarke says of the continuation of the campaign, “The response so far has been spectacular. I’ve been seeing the masks in action around town, and the recipients are appreciative. We’ve heard from many volunteers that they have enjoyed having a new task to focus on, whether they are sewing with us or making deliveries of kits or completed masks. Our volunteers are eager to continue. Last weekend I put out 25 kits, and they were all picked up by Monday morning - they go out as fast as I can cut them!”

 

If you are interested in registering to sew face masks, or you would like to be added to the distribution list for completed masks, please contact info@guelphtoollibrary.org

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