Personal Protective Equipment Drive in Salida March 27. Pictured: Emergency Manager Richard Atkins, Director of Public Health Andrea Carlstrom and Special Projects Coordinator Mike Orrill (Behind the stack of boxes) Photo by Taylor Sumners.
Shortages of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) have been reported in hospitals across the nation. In hopes to combat the nationwide shortage issue, Chaffee County has organized two drives, the second one today, to collect sealed boxes of unused gloves, gowns, and masks to be used for healthcare and essential staff who must work throughout the COVID-19 crisis.
The next drive will happen today from 2 to 4 p.m., Monday March 30. The PPE Drive will take place at the Buena Vista Annex Building located at 112 Linderman Avenue. The Buena Vista PPE drive will be collecting the same items as the drive that took place in Salida on Friday. Drivers have been instructed to drive through the Linderman parking lot and drop their items off at the back door.
The first drive occurred in Salida with collections at the Touber Building on Friday, March 27.
Chaffee County Public Health Director Andrea Carlstrom shared with Ark Valley Voice, “We have heard that there are many groups throughout the county that might have PPE to spare, such as auto mechanics, hair and nail salons, dental providers, and construction companies.”
“Due to the likely shortage of PPE that will be needed to respond to those who fall ill from COVID-19, we are asking for donations that will then be distributed to healthcare workers and those providing essential services throughout our county,” said Carlstrom.
There will be signage and staff to streamline the process. Those with questions about the drive have been encouraged to contact Chaffee County Emergency Manager Richard Atkins, at 719-207-2730.
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