Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County has joined in an effort to distribute face masks to help nonprofit organizations in Western Colorado in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

Through an allocation program by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Habitat for Humanity distributed more than 31,000 face masks in Mesa County. Habitat was scheduled to distribute another 13,000 face masks on July 22 to nonprofits in Delta and Montrose counties.

“One thing that is really important about this donation, FEMA wants to make sure we’re providing masks to the nonprofit’s staff and volunteers to protect them and the people they serve during COVID-19,” said Janet Brink, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County. “We are proud to be a part of this endeavor with FEMA in reaching out to local nonprofits and in keeping our communities healthy and safe.”

Kirk Granum, operations director and safety officer for Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County, said the group promotes what he said are the three Ws to slow the spread of COVID-19: watch your distance, wash your hands and wear non-medical grade masks in public. “But of the three, the most important is wearing a mask,” Granum said.

The FEMA masks are made of cotton, but also contain silver and copper to help prevent the spread of the virus.

The face mask distribution program is intended to help nonprofits affected by the pandemic. Even as those organizations face increasing costs to continue offering services and manage the pandemic, they’re also experiencing a decrease in contributions.

Nonprofit organizations in need of face masks for staff and volunteers should contact Marie Mitchell, communications director at Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County, at 216-1277 or mmitchell@hfhmesa.org.

Since its founding in 1991, Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County has worked with volunteers, donors and Habitat homeowners to build 81 houses and provide affordable housing in the county. The organization typically builds four to five houses a year.

Donations of money, time and building materials enable Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County to pursue its mission. The organization also raises money through its ReStore, which sells donated building materials, furnishings and a variety of other wares. Area businesses provide support in terms of money, merchandise and volunteers.

For additional information about Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County, visit https://habitatmesa.org or call 255-9850.