Augusta University Health welcomes donations of cloth masks

If you’re crafty, share your talents with Augusta University Health.

Many residents, church and community groups in the Augusta area are sewing cloth face masks for family and friends, and some have asked to donate them to Augusta University Health. These donations are welcomed with open arms.

“Our community is just so kind and giving, and they want to continue to support AU Health,” said Julie Moretz, associate vice president of Patient- and Family-Centered Care.

Under typical circumstances, because of Augusta University’s patient- and family-centered practices, family and guests may be with their patient 24/7. During COVID-19, family presence was modified. Beginning May 6, however, patients may bring one family member to appointments and hospital stays, but each patient and support person must wear face coverings or masks inside the hospital and clinics.

Donated cloth masks will be distributed to patients and their support persons, as well as nonclinical staff who need masks but do not need to wear N-95 surgical masks.

“This will just help us be cautious in preventing the spread of COVID-19,” Moretz said. “The whole community has just been so generous in providing meals and pick-me-ups. This is just one more way to help.”

To donate, please place masks in individual plastic bags, such as sandwich bags. Bring the donations to the B entrance of the hospital, on 15th Street, and call the Center for Patient- and-Family-Centered Care at 706-721-7322 prior to your arrival. A member of the staff will meet you at the curb to pick up your donation. Donors will not need to leave their car to participate.

These gifts will be invaluable as the current crisis continues.

“We are grateful for this support and since we don’t know how long we will be dealing with COVID-19, this is something we will always want to have at our fingertips,” Moretz said.

Find more ways to donate to Augusta University to help during the pandemic.