During the early stages of the pandemic, knowledge around mask requirements changed daily and manufacturing shortages left everyday essential workers in peril. Intending to meet this urgent need and practice community care, our team at Protohaven pivoted to PPE production during shutdowns.
Based on the latest scientific findings at the University of Florida, College of Medicine, I designed the “Ally” Face Mask to be mass produced by anyone with a home sewing machine and basic sewing ability. It requires only readily available materials, like those used for pillowcases and t-shirts. 10 an hour, 50 a day, 200 a week are reasonable outputs for a dedicated intermediate sewist.
This enabled us to partner with Global Links, Casa San Jose, and JFCS Immigrant & Refugee Services to contract displaced workers to work safely from home to meet the need.
