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It started out as an idea by members of a local group meant to help female entrepreneurs who are also newcomers to Canada: making 10,000 face masks for those who are vulnerable.
The women, members of the Saskatoon Open Door Society (SODS) are now well on their way to fulfilling that lofty goal.
A call for those who know how to sew was made one week ago, with specific instructions on which pattern to use, how to submit a test sample and who to contact.
SODS CEO Ali Abukar says as momentum gained, several other community partners became part of the project.
“Willows Dental Clinic and the U of S College of Dentistry and.. a few others are working for us.”
The dental groups have agreed to sterilize the masks when they are completed and inspected.
Seamstresses and sewers are already starting to produce the masks, which will then be taken for sterilization over the weekend or early next week, then packaged for distribution.
“We only are intending to give them (masks) to those who are in need,” says Abukar. “People who are vulnerable in the community, who are at shelters and grocery stores and people who are maybe homeless. We just wanted to make sure that people who are in need of these face masks get them free of charge.”
Along with the masks, there will be care instructions on a label. He also makes it clear that the masks don’t replace hand washing and practicing good hygiene.
“We’ve consulted with scientists and medical doctors to…ensure people understand when to replace them, when to dispose of them, how to reuse them, wash them, make sure they’re not touching their eyes, nose and mouth then they’re wearing them.”
The most important thing about the project he says, was for members of SODS to find a way to support and contribute to the community.
“These are strange and difficult times and we’re staying apart, but also we’re staying together to support each other. Anything we can do to slow down the spread of the virus is encouraged and welcomed.”
