Mask Mania

As of this morning, we’ve delivered nearly 2000 masks since we switched gears from menstrual pads to masks. Hospitals, senior centers, food pantries, shelters, grocery stores, etc. have asked and been given our handmade creations.

My home has turned into Schenectady mask central with the Albany center running out of Linda’s house. We are astonished how this thing has grown. We now have over 250 people helping to cut, sew and deliver.

My husband Michael has been delivering materials to our volunteers.

The organizations we serve are immensely grateful but what I love best is the unintended gift our volunteers have, of feeling useful during this stressful time. I hear them say over and over how thankful they are to have something meaningful to do. We hear more every day about the benefits of everyone wearing a mask. As that young woman from the Czech Republic said, “I protect you and you protect me”. It’s surely a time of helping each other isn’t it?

The MoonCatcher Project continues, though our donations are understandably down and we can’t send anything overseas except our love and encouragement. I have received many messages from our folks in Africa filled with concern for us. It’s humbling to read these dear texts from our MoonCatcher families.  Our tailors in India and Uganda have been busy sewing masks.

India has also been making our MoonCatcher kits for migrant workers who are in lockdown. This is so amazing.

Phoebe has been sewing and distributing masks in Wakiso, Uganda.

The Shashi Kiran Charitable Trust has been keeping our tailors in India working - making face masks.

Maureen and I spoke to the Keepers Project out of Nantucket this past Tuesday. We were able to talk about what The MoonCatcher Project does and it felt so good to be speaking of something other than Covid-19 for a little while. It reminded me of our mission and why educating girls is so important. I hope we get to work with the Keepers Project. They talk about connection and neighborhoods and the importance of listening to each other. Perfect timing!

I received 221 packages of menstrual supplies for my Birthday. They were happily received by Josephs House, Schenectady Inner City Ministry, Schenectady Community Action Program,  The Regional Food Pantry and City Mission. Thank you all for your generosity. I took a long walk, baked my own cake and raised a glass to all of you for celebrating with me in my favorite way.

My warehouse/living room.