DES MOINES, Iowa — Broadlawns Medical Center and the United Way of Central Iowa’s Healthier Together: It’s a Win for All initiative, or Win for All, are asking the public to donate washable fabric face masks in an effort to increase access to this important form of protection for under-served populations in central Iowa.
The hospital and charitable organization encourage Iowans to commit to donating fabric face masks, either by making them or purchasing them, on the Win for All webpage, which also includes information on how to make face masks.
To donate, enclose the completed masks in a resealable plastic bag or closed plastic box, and label with the number of masks inside the bag or box. Deliver or mail the mask pack to United Way of Central Iowa, 1111 Ninth St., Des Moines, IA 50311. Drop-off donations may be made between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
“Central Iowa is experiencing disproportionately elevated COVID-19 infection rates among marginalized and under-served populations, illustrating the disparity and barriers that still in existence within our community,” said Elisabeth Buck, president of United Way of Central Iowa. “Wearing a face mask is one of the best ways to minimize the probability of contracting the virus, yet many people don’t have one — or know the impact of wearing one. Donated masks will be critical in helping to minimize the spread now and in the coming months.”
Win for All aims to decrease the spread of COVID-19 by providing educational resources, protective face masks and hand sanitizer to low-income and marginalized populations in the community who do not currently have access to these forms of personal health protection.
“During these unprecedented times, it is critically important for community members to come together and support those who are most at risk,” said Dr. Yogesh Shah, chief medical officer and vice president of medical affairs at Broadlawns Medical Center. “By working in tandem with United Way of Central Iowa, we can effectively reach vulnerable individuals and equip them with protective resources, including masks and hand sanitizer. Together we can make a meaningful difference in assisting those who are most in need of our help within our community.”
Donated masks will be disbursed to community organizations that serve marginalized communities in central Iowa.
