Williamson County seeks volunteers to help make masks

Williamson County is asking for residents' help to make masks for first responders and medical personnel as they fight against the coronavirus, according to an April 7 news release.

To support the ongoing supply shortage of personal protective equipment, Williamson County has established a Mask Brigade, the release said.

In partnership with COVID Rangers and Round Rock’s Reid’s Cleaners, the volunteer task force will make fabric masks to provide a layer of protection from transmission of airborne contaminants. The masks will later be distributed to those on the front lines of the coronavirus, the release said.

"We are calling on anyone with experience as an embroiderer or a seamster, or with sewing experience, or who might be handy with a pair of scissors to pitch in and help out,” said 26th District Court Judge Donna King, who is leading the charge.

The goal is to provide guidance to those willing to volunteer their time, skills and materials to construct two different types of masks: the ranger mask designed to go over the N95 masks used by first responders to extend the life of the mask; and the pleated pattern mask used by other identified groups, the release said.

The county has provided directions on its website.

Masks can be dropped off at the Celebration Church-Annex Building at 601 Westinghouse, Georgetown, Mon-Thu. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The masks will be dry cleaned and sanitized before being distributed, the website said.

Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell said April 8 that county residents have volunteered time and resources to make dozens of masks, and the count is expected to be 200 by April 13.