Rizenia Castillo is one of the three community members in Sitka that produced and donated hand-made facial masks for their community.

Some protection is better than none. Understanding the risks of COVID-19, a few Alaskans had volunteered their time to hand-made some facial masks to protect their communities.

Three community members – Rizenia Castillo, Zaida Molina and Shirleyaurea Arce – in Sitka had devoted their time to produce and donate some self-made personal protective wear for the local Alaska Commercial Company store staff, renters and their associates.

When the project was completed, they extended their kindness to the Southeast Alaska Mask Makers, a place where volunteers share their techniques and tips for handmaking face masks and distribute them to those who want the self-made masks.

 To date, more than 500 items have been made. Although these masks do not provide absolute defense against the corona virus, they are still beneficial because they help to limit facial contacts and droplet transmission of COVID-19.

“It is with pride to say I have the honor of working with these ‘nightingales’ as not only taking care of their own, they donated their time to help others during these trying times,” said Vince Winter, ACC Lakeside Store Manager.

To reciprocate these selfless individuals’ efforts and generosity, ACC proudly presented each contributor a certification of appreciation.