Volunteers Needed to Sew Fabric Masks

3/30/2020

Due to the national shortage of face masks, HealthNet is welcoming fabric masks made by members of our community. Orders for standard disposable masks are on long back orders, due to both demand and supply chain issues. Other hospitals and health centers across the country are reporting the same supply concerns.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fabric masks are a crisis response option when other supplies have been exhausted. Due to the limited supply of materials, we appreciate you donating your own reserves of materials to help our community. 

All collected masks will be immediately sent to laundry/processing to be prepared for use, and then distributed to HealthNet’s health centers. 

If you are sick, we want you to focus on your health and well-being. Due to the quick spread of this virus, we ask that you hold off making masks at this time. Also, please remember to maintain social distancing etiquette when making or dropping off masks. We do not want groups of people getting sick.

Details and Instructions

If you are able to sew and willing to help, we thank you for sharing your time and skills! Here’s what you need to know before getting started:

• Use 100% cotton tightly woven fabric, sewn with two layers (see instructions below).
• Bias tape fabric ties are fine; no beaded cording; no silk or satin ribbons.
• Non-smoking homes only, please.
• Please launder your fabric prior to construction, if possible.
• No wire/bendable nose pieces
• Please remember that both men and women will be using these masks.
• Adult and child-sized masks are needed
• Masks do not need to be washed before drop off. HealthNet will launder these once they arrive. 
• We encourage you to share photos on social media of yourself making fabric masks to build community spirit. Please tag us on social media (@indyhealthnet on Facebook; @indy_healthnet on Twitter and @indyhealthnet on Instagram) and use #HomemadeforHealthNet or send us the photos in a private message.
• Email info@indyhealthnet.org with questions. 

Face Mask Instructions

• Surgical Mask with Bias Tape Ties (Please no bendable nose pieces) 
• Olson Mask with Ear Loops (made from hair ties) | Video Instructions
• Surgical Mask with Elastic Ear Loops
• No-Sew Bandana Mask
• No-Sew T-Shirt Mask

Mask Collection / Drop Off

Mask collection will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday at:

HealthNet Barrington Health & Dental Center 
3401 E. Raymond St.
Indianapolis, IN 46203

Masks can be dropped off at the white tent in front of the building. If you have questions, please email info@indyhealthnet.org.

Thank you for your support!