Volunteers from West Hartford and the surrounding area have created and donated masks that will be distributed through West Hartford’s Department of Social Services.

The West Hartford and Elmwood Senior Centers have helped procure face masks that are now being distributed through the Social Services Department. Courtesy photo

Submitted

The West Hartford and Elmwood Senior Centers wish to thank the 10 or more volunteers who created more than 300 masks to help the West Hartford Community.

In an outreach effort, Senior Center volunteers have been calling members and one of the most common requests were for face masks. Staff member Robin Collins jumped into action and within a few hours she was able to make contact with two Facebook sites: Neighbors and Friends of West Hartford and put in a request with the group, “Sewing Face Masks – Farmington Valley Connecticut” from a tip from a friend in West Hartford.

“Members of both groups responded immediately and enthusiastically, pledging donations of handmade masks,” Robin said.

In addition to West Hartford residents, several sewers came from neighboring communities including Avon, Manchester, Rocky Hill and South Windsor. Astrid Calderon, Social Services manager, was amazed at the support received.

“This has always been a giving community and in times like this when the needs are great, how wonderful that people are willing to give of their time and talents,” Calderon said. All masks were donated free of charge and will be distributed to the elderly and those at risk through the West Hartford Social Services Department.

For more information or to request a mask, please contact Deanna Deshpande at 860-561-7574 or [email protected].

Thank you to all who have supported this worthwhile project and we welcome and encourage the donation of additional masks as the need in our community grows.

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