This article originally appeared on the blog of Heretic, the magazine of We Are Libertarians.
There are lots of ways for us to help our friends, neighbors, and communities during the difficult challenges that for many have already begun and will likely persist for the next several weeks, or even months. In our Getting Through COVID-19, Together series, we will look at specific ways to do just that.
(If you would like to contribute to this series, please let us know at hereticjournal@gmail.com, or message us on Facebook.)
Use Your Crafting Skills for Good
Among hospitals, nursing homes, other health care services, and the public in general, there is a terrible lack of medical masks. There is a litany of reasons for this shortage, but rather than looking for who to blame, let’s look at how we can help.
Many hospitals and other organizations are not only accepting, but asking members of their communities to make homemade masks for their staff members. While these masks are certainly not as protective as legitimate medical mask, they are definitely better than nothing.
One business that is really leading the way in this effort is the fabric and crafting store Joann. On their website, they are providing instructions for how to make various types of masks out of multiple kinds of fabric. They are also opening up their stores and donating fabric to crafters willing to make these much-needed masks.
There are also many patterns for DIY masks available online. Here’s an example.
Additionally, if you are not crafty you can donate to help those who are. Joann is accepting donations, but there are also many other hospitals and other organizations helping to fund these masks, such as Providence’s 100 Million Masks project.
Aside from masks, I have also seen a desire for headbands with buttons from nurses and doctors all over social media. The buttons on these headbands can help hold up the masks and take pressure and pain off of their ears.
Here’s what I’m talking about:
I myself am not crafty at all. But I can donate. I encourage everyone to help out in this area, as you are best able.
