Waco Masks for Hope
We’ve all seen the signs across town. Billboards reading, “Cover your face, protect your space.” Infographics touting good hygiene across digital platforms. Yard signs popping up in Waco’s parks reminding patrons to stay safe. This week, an emergency declaration from City of Waco leadership made mask wearing mandatory in local businesses and public spaces where social distancing is not possible, following weeks of encouragement through public awareness campaigns.
Why masks?
When worn by people in close proximity, mask wearing is a proven method of slowing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. After observing the rapid rise of cases in McLennan County, and in light of new data surrounding spread of the disease through asymptomatic carriers, mask wearing is essential to regaining control in the face of the pandemic still very much present within our community.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, personal protective equipment including medical-grade masks have been hard to come by. One local Baylor graduate—Suzi Elnaggar—has stepped in to fulfill the need for quality masks locally. Waco Masks for Hope sells masks “buy one, donate one” style – for every mask sold, local nonprofits and healthcare workers receive masks distributed through the Waco McLennan County Emergency Center, or through a direct request. Proceeds are donated back to local organizations.
Asked how she got her start, Suzi Elnaggar of Waco Masks for Hope said, “My grandma, Jo Brand, taught me to sew at 7 or 8, and she bought me my current sewing machine as a Christmas gift a few years ago. When the pandemic started, my grandma began sewing for hospitals and retirement homes. While I was finishing up school, I had ordered several masks online, and when they came, they wouldn't even fit me or my husband. So, I came up with the idea of selling masks to fund donations.”
Her inspiration? Mission Waco, a nonprofit that aims to mobilize middle-class Americans to become more compassionately involved among the poor.
“I worked at Mission Waco for 5 years, primarily as the Youth Program Director, and I was talking to a former colleague that mentioned the financial effect of the pandemic on non-profits in Waco. I reached out to John Calaway, the director of Mission Waco, with my idea to raise funds. I plan to raise funds for several nonprofits in Waco and I'm raising money for Mission Waco through June. I set aside a specific pattern, the Know Your Power Mask, that raises funds for the Equity Fund as well, to show commitment towards peace and justice.”
To date, $650 dollars have been raised from the sale of masks. 160 masks have been donated, with more to come!
“I feel that I should pay it forward during this time of hardship for so many,” Elnaggar said. “My grandparents...showed commitment to serving your community through service by working as [volunteers]…My grandma continues to volunteer her time through sewing, and she gives me tips!...I'm glad that this opportunity has opened up for me to love my neighbor!”
Waco Masks for Hope sells products online via Etsy. Followers on Facebook and Instagram can keep up with the latest fabrics, design options, and product bundles as they are announced. Masks are available in a variety of sizes for men, women, and children. Options include lightweight fabrics, ear loops, behind-the-head straps or convertible options. Fabric choices include designer fabrics from Rifle Paper Co., Disney-inspired options, and plenty of green and gold for Baylor fans out there.
Support Waco Masks for Hope! View the online store. Know how to sew? Waco Masks for Hope is currently searching for partners to help make donation masks. Supplies, including fabrics, are also welcome! Contact Waco Masks for Hope at wacomasksforhope@gmail.com