Williamson County seeks volunteers to help sew masks

The county has established the volunteer group in an effort to help first responders, medical professionals and others dealing with the shortage of personal protective equipment.

GEORGETOWN, Texas - Williamson County is asking for anyone with an embroidering machine, sewing machine or even scissors to join their Mask Brigade.

The county has established the volunteer group in an effort to help first responders, medical professionals and others dealing with the shortage of personal protective equipment. Working in partnership with COVID Rangers and Reid’s Cleaners, volunteers will make fabric masks intended to provide a layer of protection for those at the frontlines against COVID-19.

“We are calling on anyone with experience as an embroiderer or a seamster, or with sewing experience, or who might be handy with a pair of scissors to pitch in and help out,” said 26th District Court Judge Donna King, who will be leading the brigade.

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City officials also stress the importance of maintaining physical distancing and following the stay-home work order.

The county says the goal is to provide guidance to those willing to volunteer their time, skills and even materials to create two different kinds of masks: the COVID Ranger, designed to go over the N95 mask to extend its lifespan, and the Pleated Pattern, intended for official distribution to other identified groups. The Mask Brigade will be using these two specific patterns in order to ensure the masks are standardized.

“The Wilco Way is all about stepping up and helping others and joining the Mask Brigade is one way for our talented residents to do just that. I am grateful to Judge King for leading this effort, and I invite our amazing Williamson County residents to join her,” said Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell.

The Wilco Mask Brigade page provides instructions and specifications needed along with drop off information. Interested participants can go online or contact organizers at COVID-19Masks@wilco.org for more information.

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