Erlanger Health System continues to seek donations from the community of homemade masks to assist with providing personal protective equipment (PPE) needs in non-clinical areas.
"Currently, Erlanger has an adequate supply of PPE on hand to protect our staff and patients," offiials said. "However, handmade masks are acceptable in non-clinical areas at Erlanger facilities. Since beginning the donation program on April 8, Erlanger has received over 2,000 masks.
“We are moved by the outpouring of support from our community,” said Liz Hedges, director of Business Development at Erlanger Health System.
“Our community has rallied around the health system and our staff, and we couldn’t be more touched by all your messages and desire to help. From the bottom of our hearts we truly appreciate all of you.”
Donations will be accepted Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. at Children’s Hospital Kennedy Outpatient Center located at the corner of East Third Street and Palmetto Street. The donation cart will be placed in the valet area outside of the building with signs directing donors to the drop-off location. (Map pictured)
"Daily, the masks will be collected and laundered, then given to our Emergency Preparedness Team for distribution. The masks will be distributed to all of our facilities throughout the region so that others in non-clinical areas will be able to use them throughout their day," officials said.
A recommended sewing pattern can be found below. Note versions with and without elastic are included. Also, it is required that the fabric is 100% cotton.
Resources for how to make a homemade mask -
• Video from Deaconess Health https://www.deaconess.com/How-to-make-a-Face-Mask.
• Joann Fabrics https://www.joann.com/make-to-give-response/.