LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Even superheroes need help sometimes and that’s what sparked an idea for a Lexington woman who wanted to help protect health care workers and others in need during this pandemic.
Catherine Kamei started ‘The Superhero Mask Project,’ a collection of volunteers who sew and deliver masks across the country.
”I hope health care workers and other people that are out there on the frontline for us feel supported and know how much strangers around the country care for their well-being,” said Kamei.
The project’s Facebook group offers sewing tutorials and advice. People who don't sew can still contribute supplies, wash and cut fabric, and help deliver masks.
”We will match them with a facility. Either provide a drop-off or mail location, because it can overwhelm facilities to get people just walking up offering that,” said Kamei.
There are now more than 800 volunteers who have sent out about 1,000 masks to seven states, including Kentucky.
Since the CDC recommended everyone wear a mask in public, having hundreds of volunteers makes it easier for more people to access and use this protective gear. Brian Adkins, an emergency physician with the University of Kentucky and one of the project’s founders, says not only do the masks offer protection, it’s helpful for members.
”Not only are we preventing a spread of infection, I think that there’s healing and helping,” Adkins said. “I think that the opportunity for people to be able to put their hands to use to do something in their free time to create something to help others, I think that adds to your happiness and boosts your immune system. I think it’s good for all.”
