Clay County partnership to sew masks for first responders

Jacksonville, FL — A collaboration of local businesses in Clay County is working to make one-thousand masks for first responders and essential personnel.  Community First Credit Union and the Clay County Chamber of Commerce have partnered with Renne Thorp at DIRenee Creations to produce the masks.

“We appreciate the support of Community First Credit Union in providing the funds to purchase and distribute this critical equipment to our first responders,” said Chamber President Wendell Chindra. “Their support of local business has been critical to our ability to meet the needs of our Clay County heroes.”

Thorp has been sewing since she was age 9.  She said she started making the masks after being asked about them by someone at a Chamber Finally Friday meeting. The masks are made from a cotton material with a non-woven interface that she said adds extra protection on the inside. They are pleated and sewn together. Thorp said it is nearly impossible to find elastic right now, so she has fashioned the ties from a softer, stretchy jersey knit.

Chindra, the President of the Clay Chamber, told Jacksonville’s Morning News that the economic impact from a mandatory stay at home order has been felt across the county, including at the Orange Park Mall.

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