West DSM News

Handmade masks are being made countywide in Dallas, as local residents provide a way to protect their community from COVID-19.

Local organizations, healthcare workers, friends, family members and acquaintances are being provided masks through multiple groups and individuals sewing masks.

Nursing homes Adel Acres and Spurgeon Manor are among the recipients of the masks.

“I called Adel Acres to see if they had a need. They told me they are still virus-free but welcome homemade masks so they can be prepared in the event they have a breakout and are not able to acquire enough masks,” Jacque Johnson of Adel Quilting said, according to the Dallas County News. “I advised followers to hang them in a bag at the nursing home door after first calling ahead.”

Spurgeon Manor Administrator Maureen Cahill said the community has provided an adequate supply for the nursing home and encourages people to reach out to other senior living communities and hospitals that may be in need.

“The handmade masks have been a lifesaver, literally,” Cahill said. “Spurgeon Manor staff would not have protection without them because of the current shortage of disposable masks. If the masks wear out from washing, Spurgeon Manor will put out another request to the community for help.”

Kristine Jimenez, who has provided masks for Spurgeon Manor and Kids Korner in Dallas Center, has also created a way to help while maintaining proper social distancing, by placing a bin outside her home for mask pick up and drop off.

“It makes me feel like we have a purpose and in a time where you don’t have a lot of control of the situation, doing what you can do is helpful,” Jimenez said. “Community residents are definitely stepping up to encourage others and meet needs.”

Several residents, including Johnson and Jimenez, came across the idea to make masks on social media.

Kristy Hall, an Adel resident, joined the Facebook group, “Masks for the Frontlines Iowa,” and began making masks.

“After I put out a call on Facebook for some supplies, I got a message from a friend going through chemo asking if I would sew a mask for her. She said she is only allowed to leave the house to go to her chemo appointments and has to wear a mask, but none are available,” Hall said. “So even if hospitals gather enough masks for their staff, other community members are in need.”

Hall said the Facebook group administrators communicate current needs in the community and help members find ways to donate. 

Johnson and Hall have both made masks for family members and individuals in need within their community, many not able to purchase masks at a store due to a supply shortage.

Establishments have different requirements, but Johnson said any fabric will work to create a mask, requiring two 6-by-9-inch rectangles of fabric and two 6-inch pieces of elastic.

Cloth face coverings in public are still recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.