My neighbor sent these suggestions to help:

I. It is not an exaggeration to say that every health care facility is experiencing a critical shortage of protective equipment for health care workers.

1. If you are handy with a sewing machine, you can try to make some masks. We don’t know whether home sewn masks are as effective as standard masks, but they could be used as a last resort which is in keeping with CDC guidance – and they could be sterilized and reused. I’d advise checking ahead with health facility to see if they would be accepted, as well as safe drop-off directions. Here is a video link: https://www.deaconess.com/SpecialPages/How-to-make-a-Face-Mask?fbclid=IwAR1H25JhviFlqeBjj-LEwCUCGNf-PbJcst4fHxcnXOThUqoTk6CVQ8cuyRM

2. If you are handy with other craft materials, you could try to make some face shields. One hospital made them from marine-grade vinyl, industrial tape, foam, and elastic. As above, check ahead before donating. Here is a link: https://www.fastcompany.com/90479200/hospital-workers-design-their-own-face-masks-using-craft-supplies

3. If you have store-bought masks of any kind that you are able to donate, please consider doing so.

II. There is a blood shortage. If your health and ability allows, you could donate blood.

To make an appointment, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) or visit www.redcrossblood.org/give.

The American Red Cross has seven locations in MA where you can donate:

1.         Boston – 274 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02116

2.         Danvers – 99 Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923

3.         Dedham – 180 Rustcraft Road, Dedham, MA 02026

4.         Raynham – 275 New State Hwy, Raynham, MA 02767

5.         Springfield – 150 Brookdale Drive, Springfield, MA 01104

6.         Weymouth – 208 Main Street, Weymouth, MA 02188

7.         Worcester – 381 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605