Laredo Economic Development Corporation Donates over 1000 Safety Masks to UISD Students & Teachers
Written by Post Public Information Representative, Oct 13, 2020, 0 Comments
Courtesy Alex Meyer,
(Laredo, Texas)-The year 2020 has been a time we will never forget with the COVID-19 pandemic affecting every aspect of daily life. COVID-19 has created world-wide challenges that have impacted our communities economically and psychologically, yet there have been many silver lining initiatives born as a result. Despite the barriers created by COVID-19, Laredo Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) whose goal is to promote economic development, saw an opportunity to give back to the Laredo community and capitalize on volunteers ready to reeawaken their sewing talents. Today, the LEDC donated masks to another one of their member partners, UISD.
The Laredo Mask Makers #We’veGotYouCovered, a non-profit grassroots initiative from the Laredo Economic Development Corporation, found volunteers to sew non-medical grade, reusable masks as recommended by the CDC for essential and COVID-vulnerable segments of our community. With the help of a $2,000 grant from Electric Transmission Texas (ETT), an affiliate of AEP Texas, the LEDC was able to purchase materials necessary to begin the project.Since April 2020, Mask Makers has produced 5,000 reusable masks for adults and children.
They have donated masks to: Sacred Hearts Children’s Home, Children’s Advocacy Center, Ruthe B. Cowl, Mercy Ministries, Retama South, various doctor’s offices and to Doctor’s Hospital.The continued dedication of Mask Makers volunteers has made it possible for this initiative to donate 1,100 hand-made masks to United ISD. The organizers of the project are LEDC’s Olivia Varela, Yvette Medina, and Meva Saenz.
UISD’s Associate Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction, Mr. David Gonzalez, affirmed his gratitude for this donation. “It is so refreshing to know that during these times of quandary, our society continues to come together for one common theme, which is to make a positive difference in the lives of others. UISD appreciates these donations and knows that the masks will benefit the safety of its stakeholders.”
Mr. Gonzalez also recommended for everyone to refer to the CDC website on mask recommendations:
Wear masks in public settings when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
Masks with at least 2 layers of fabric are most likely to reduce the spread of COVID-19 when they are widely used by people in public settings.
Simple masks can be made at home using washable, breathable fabric and may help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Do NOT use a mask meant for a healthcare worker. Currently, surgical masks and N95 respirators are critical supplies that should be reserved for healthcare workers and other first responders.
