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Tampa Bay group makes masks for medical workers and they need your help

The group connects medical professionals who might be in need of a mask to local sewers.

TAMPA, Fla. — In efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19 during the pandemic, a local Facebook group is stepping up and sewing masks for health care workers across the Tampa Bay area. 

Masks For Medical Workers in Tampa Bay is a Facebook group for local sewers to connect with medical care workers and create hand-sewn medical masks that hospitals and health care facilities are in need of. Right now, the group has more than 900 members.

“The cause is very personal because I do have…all of my family are pretty much in healthcare,” said Chelsea Potthast of Potthast Design. “My father is a physician. He said, 'Is your sewing machine working?' And I said it's fine. He said, 'Can you make me a couple masks? I'm really concerned that we're running low.

Potthast reached out on Facebook and to friends asking if anyone was interested in helping her make masks for healthcare workers. 

She said the response was incredible and that she was contacted by Masks for Medical Workers in Tampa Bay to collaborate on making masks.

Credit: WTSP

Michael Mastry, the owner of HavenHome Design Center, said that Potthast expressed that there was a big need for masks.

“Design firms like mine have thousands of fabric samples that can be put to immediate good use as a pretty good mask,” said Mastry. “Is it as good as 95? Probably not. But, it is definitely effective and something good for medical professionals to be able to use while they're trying to help the situation because it has.”

Credit: WTSP

There are three mask patterns that sewers can choose from.

The masks are homemade, but the group is following the following strict guidelines which require its masks to have pockets for filters.

Credit: WTSP

“You know, I want to make a mask that is a little bit more friendly-looking. If we can bring a little bit of color and a little bit of happiness to people during this time then that's also very valuable,” said Mastry.

The group has about 10,000 requests for masks. They are currently looking for sewers, people to pickup up and deliver masks, and they are looking for donations.

 If you are a medical worker, you can also submit a request. You can visit HopeForTampa.com for more information.

RELATED: The CDC says homemade masks are a last resort. In some cases, they're the only option.

RELATED: 'One mask can save lives': Hundreds work together to make PPE for those at risk

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