Service projects continue as FCCLA members and advisers answer the call from the Governor

MN FCCLA-Answering the call- Masks for Minnesota

We are reaching out to inform you of a statewide effort led by Governor Tim Walz and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan to help provide homemade masks that will be provided to local congregate living facilities for their employees and residents to wear. Over the next week, we’re asking Minnesotans to create homemade masks and then drop them off at their local fire department on Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

We know that many of you are already taking on this effort on your own. Thank you so much for your willingness to lead and give in these unprecedented times.

We know some of you will probably be interested in taking this project back to your classes (if you haven’t already!), https://mn.gov/covid19/for-minnesotans/volunteer/masks.jsp

If you would like to use a different pattern or instruction set, please consider the requirements for donated masks below:

• Build a mask that tightly encloses the area around the nose and mouth, from the bridge of the nose down to the chin, and extending onto the cheek beyond the corners of the mouth, so no gaps occur when talking or moving.
• Use mask material that is tightly woven but breathable. Double-layer the fabric if possible.
• Masks must be made from washable material such as fabric. Choose a fabric that can handle high temperatures and bleach without shrinking or otherwise deforming.
• The mask should be tolerant of expected amounts of moisture from breathing.
• Suggested materials:
  • Outer layer tea cloth
  • Inner layer of a microfleece to wick away moisture
  • Use an accordion fold to mimic a hospital mask as much as possible
  • Use a fat woven shoelace type material to bind the sides (such as quilt binding)
  • For straps, use elastic straps that loop behind the ears.
• If you decide to make masks, please share them with us online by tagging @MnDeptEd on Twitter and using the hashtag #MinneSEWtaWeek. Thank you for taking the time to consider this request and for all of the hard work you do for our students every day.

Together,

Mary Cathryn Ricker, NBCT

Commissioner of Education