by Gracie Barney, Community Relations Specialist
Throughout this crisis, Catholic Charities has continued to support and provide programs and services to our clients. Services like case management, therapeutic, and support services are provided through video and phone options. During this difficult time, our staff has gone above and beyond to meet the needs of our clients. We would like to highlight two staff members, Asia Williams and Jessica Evans. Asia and Jessica while both working remotely, saw a request for protective face masks for staff and clients for Catholic Charities and thought they could help.
Asia who has worked for Catholic Charities for a year as a parent aide wanted to do more. “I thought this was something I could do. I started researching and watching Youtube videos and I thought okay this is doable” says Asia. She connected with Jessica and they began discussing how they would start making the masks. After trips to get supplies, and a few fights with sewing machines, they began hand sewing the masks.
Jessica who has worked for Catholic Charities for two years as a navigator wanted to help support staff. “For me, this is a very uncertain time and especially for our employees who are working day in and day out. The mask gives them some sense of security while they still are boots on the ground,” says Jessica.
Jessica who has 4 children at home has turned making face masks into a family activity. “I have 4 kids. We can turn this into a family project. They have been helping me cut and sew” says Jessica.
With the Executive Order mandating everyone wear a face covering, Jessica and Asia got creative with finding materials for face masks using industrial sized rubber bands and elastic from hair ties to complete the masks.
Jessica and Asia are checking in with their clients to see if they need masks. “I’m checking in with my clients and getting a count of how many masks they need so if they have to go somewhere they will be safe” says Asia.
Together, they have made over 30 masks for staff and clients. We are deeply grateful to both Asia and Jessica for their donations of masks and their support for all we serve at Catholic Charities.
Catholic Charities is accepting donations of facemasks and essential items. For a full listing of items we need please click here: https://www.ccoc.us/sites/default/files/How%20You%20Can%20Help.pdf