With rules for wearing masks in public places taking effect in Illinois this Friday, a lot of people are scrambling to get some. The Illinois Valley Mask Initiative has begun producing home-made masks for the general public. Ottawa Police Captain Dave Gualandri says a bin in the police station lobby is being replenished from time to time.
The label on the bin suggests washing the masks before using them, since they are made in people’s homes and not in a factory setting free of allergens. Also, people should understand that these masks are not medical grade.
You may be able to help the mask makers. Linda Pohar of the Illinois Valley Mask Initiative says unused quilting cotton, 1/4″ elastic, all-purpose thread, sealable lunch bags, and gift cards good at fabric stores will help. You can drop them off in the police station lobby.
This bin at the Ottawa police station has cloth masks free for the taking…
…but they go fast.