The BWG Library has forged a partnership with NewMakeIt, a local not-for-profit organization that is working to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to frontline workers.
NewMakeIt received a request to create 5,000 visors for paramedics, hospitals and other frontline workers. The process to create these visors involves using a laser cutter to cut visors and 3D printers to create the head pieces. The laser cutter works much more quickly than the 3D printer and NewMakeIt only had two 3D printers, which meant that their production was bottlenecking.
In April, the BWG Library loaned the company their 3D printer, so that production could double in order to get as many masks created as quickly as possible.
The BWG Library has teamed up with Newmarket Public Library and NewMakeIt to ensure that the organization's efforts will have the greatest impact possible. Volunteers are printing face shields around the clock, with the NewMakeIt support team coordinating sanitization procedures and deliveries. With the relationships that have been cultivated with these other organizations, the BWG community is doing our part to stop the spread of COVID-19.
“We are so proud to be part of this initiative that supports health care workers in the fight against COVID-19,” shares Matthew Corbett, BWG Library CEO. “It is crucial to stay home and ensure proper social distancing, but being able to contribute something tangible to these efforts to save lives should make our community members feel doubly proud.”
To date, the partnership has allowed NewMakeIt to be able to donate over 2,400 face shields to health care workers in need, including Lakeridge Hospital, York Region Paramedics, CHATS and Markham Stouffville Hospital.
Submitted by Larissa Marks, BWG Library's Community Engagement Co-ordinator
