Since Glaucia’s son, Gabriel was born three months ago, her mom has been here from Brazil helping her. But once COVID-19 hit and flights were canceled, she couldn’t return home. Then, they started hearing about the mask shortage, so they sprung into action!
Glaucia’s mom is a seamstress and Glaucia says she wanted to try to help. “She said, ‘I have the skills and the heart to do it, we just need the material.’ And on we went looking for fabric and elastic. Then we called a good friend of mine that has a sewing machine and she started making them.”
So, they began making masks for friends, family and to donate to a friend’s OBGYN practice.
The mother daughter team has been making the masks at home with cotton fabric. They have an opening on top and a pocket to place a coffee filter in the middle for extra protection. Some have elastic and others have strings to tie back. They can be washed and placed in the dryer.
Although, Glaucia says they have run into some issues finding material. “We have been looking everywhere to find more fabric and elastic but didn’t have any luck until last week, when we were able to purchase material online.”
Glaucia says they are making more to donate to nurses and those who can’t afford to buy them. Masks are also available for purchase to cover the cost of material.
For Glaucia, doing something to help during this difficult time has been a welcome distraction. She owns A Place Like Home Daycare in Stamford, which has been closed for more than 40 days and she says her husband’s business has also been hit hard. “We are grateful to be healthy and have wonderful family and friends supporting us. We believe that together we are stronger!”
To purchase, send a text message to (203) 363-4019. They are available for pick up Thursdays and Fridays in Stamford.
Cover photo by Novia Mia Photography