PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ABRAM’S NATION

The shortage of personal protection gear, particularly face masks, is well documented. Abram’s Nation, a Gibsonia-based manufacturer of medical products for special needs families, is now producing free face masks for those struggling to find supplies in the hospice industry.

“We know that we can help healthcare providers and other organizations who do not have access to any face masks in the current shortage environment,” said Rose Morris, President and founder of Abram’s Nation. “The masks are washable and dryable, so we’re starting out with a limit of one mask per person so we can help as many people as possible.”

While those directly working with COVID-19 must use N95 compliant masks for maximum safety, the shortage of face masks is also affecting those in less intensive care settings; personnel working in hospice and special needs care also need proper protection to interact with their patients.

Morris found a solution by using a heavy-duty polyester fabric that was used in one of the company’s existing products, The Safety Sleeper, a fully enclosed bed system for children and adults with special needs. By adapting the fabric, the company was able to make a mask that meets the standards for these employees.

“The CDC is saying that homemade masks can be used as a last resort for healthcare personnel treating patients with COVID-19 when N95 masks are not available,” said Morris. “We’re trying to stay ahead of that by helping people working in settings such as hospice or centers for people with special needs so that those on the front lines can continue to access the N95 masks they need.”

During this shift in production, Abram’s Nation will also continue its regular line of products for special needs families. The company is also seeking volunteers to help produce the face masks.

“We have several volunteers who are currently sewing masks, and we welcome anyone in the Pittsburgh area who has access to a sewing machine to join the cause.”

Volunteers can receive kits to sew the masks from their homes by emailing medicalmasks@abramsnation.com.