As part of America's Mask Challenge, United Way of Southwest New Mexico is coordinating with HanesBrands Inc. to deliver 140,000 reusable cloth masks for Las Cruces Public Schools to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
The Challenge is a new initiative from United Way, the Business Roundtable, a group of 182 CEOs from large American companies, and the CDC Foundation. The challenge aims to deliver 200 million washable face masks to 40 million students, teachers, and staff in America's most under-resourced schools, averaging about five washable masks per person.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cloth masks in schools can help slow the spread of the coronavirus, along with other mitigation strategies like hand-washing, social distancing and regular cleansing and disinfecting of frequently-touched surfaces in schools and buses.
As American continues to grapple with COVID-19 and the resulting health, economic and education fallout, United Way's focus has been on the disproportionate impact on the most vulnerable. One place to make a difference is protecting students, teachers and school staff as schools pursue in person instruction.
In the Las Cruces Public Schools District, masks are going to 28 under-resourced schools, which serve high populations of students from low-income families. "Getting our students back to the classroom has been the focus of our district for over a year now," said Kelly Jameson, Public Information Officer for LCPS. "We cannot do that safely unless all necessary PPE is in place. Donations like the generous one from the United Way of Southwest New Mexico ensures we have adequate supplies to meet those needs."
Amanda Morales, CEO, United Way of Southwest New Mexico said, "This support from HanesBrands will help ensure our most vulnerable residents have masks to help keep them safe and slow the spread. We urge other companies to join in this effort and take part in America's Mask Challenge."
HanesBrands, a leading global marketer of branded everyday basic apparel, is the first company to join the Challenge. Hanes has donated 25 million masks to the Challenge, which are now being distributed. As the Challenge gains traction, Hanes will produce the masks and coordinate with United Way on delivery.
Chris Fox, Vice President Corporate Social Responsiblity at HanesBrands Inc. notes, "United Way has led the way in helping our neighbors through the pandemic. We're pleased to support United Way's effort to help keep school children safe and healthy as they return to the classrooms."
United Way of Southwest New Mexico has been part of the effort to help communities cope with the health, economic and education fallout from COVID-19. In 2020, United Way of SWNM invested over $550,000 to support community partners and initiatives in response to the pandemic.