Calling All Crafters in Dayton: Help Sew Face Mask Covers

Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton is looking to mobilize an army of crafters who can sew face mask covers to help with the shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) healthcare workers are facing throughout Ohio and the nation as they treat patients with COVID-19.  

“Many crafters are reaching out and offering to make face mask covers,” said Amy LeVan, director of volunteer services at Ohio’s Hospice. “While our healthcare professionals are using their PPE equipment thoughtfully, these homemade face mask covers may help us extend our supply of PPE if shortages continue to be a challenge.” 

Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton is accepting face mask covers from smoke-free and pet-free environments.

These face mask covers will be used as a last resort based on current guidance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), healthcare providers can use homemade face masks when face masks are not available.

However, the CDC states that homemade face masks are not considered PPE, since their capability to protect healthcare providers is unknown. The homemade face masks should be used in combination with a face shield that covers the entire front, extending to the chin or below, and the sides of the face. Click here for the most current information about cloth masks from the CDC.

The pattern is available online here. If crafters have any questions, please contact Maureen Swarts, manager of volunteer services at Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton, at 937.256.9507, ext. 1161.

Crafters may drop off their completed face mask covers in a donation basket at the Friends and Family entrance of the Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton Hospice House (324 Wilmington Ave., Dayton, OH 45420).

Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton, an affiliate of Ohio’s Hospice, is a not-for-profit hospice provider. Since 1978, it has served patients and families in the Dayton region in their homes, extended care and assisted living facilities, and the Hospice House location in Dayton. Grief support services are available to the entire community through the Pathways of Hope Grief Counseling Center. Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton serves more than 1,000 patients and families daily, achieving national recognition for innovative services and outstanding care.