Some days I have to pinch myself that we are living through this unprecedented time. There is so much uncertainty and almost a feeling of helplessness.  I am not in a career that is on the frontlines so I am able to work from the comfort of my own home. I am currently in my Fellowship year at Kenneth Cole, working on the Women’s Footwear design team. As a former design student and current footwear designer, I am in a position where I do have skills that can help make something useful for those that are out there working and fighting every day. I decided to use my sewing skills and my free time to make as many masks as I could.

A few weeks ago, I left NYC and have been living with my family in Pennsylvania. My dad owns a local restaurant here, so they have been deemed an essential business and are open for take-out and delivery business. They need masks for all employees so I made sure to give them the first batch of masks. After their needs were met, I decided to make some more and post on social media that I had masks, and was happy to give them to anyone that needed for personal use or for local businesses, even for healthcare workers.

I am proud to say that my handmade masks have made it into the hands of healthcare workers, elderly neighbors, and local businesses. Now that I know people need them, I am planning to reach out to local hospitals and health care services to see if they are looking for donations.

Kenneth Cole is currently working on an initiative called the New Courageous Class to focus on first responders and people that are on the frontlines making a difference right now. I am excited to be featured in the campaign for my efforts to make these masks.