Band of brothers ‘in this together’
The world is dealing with a coronavirus pandemic, but difficult times often bring out the best in people. Neighbours help neighbours. Strangers help strangers. We want to hear what you’re doing to lift spirits or make a difference during this challenging time. Share your story and/or photo by emailing reply@calgaryherald.com
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
The signs created by these Calgary brothers say it all. “Stay home. Keep calm. We are in this together.” Thanks to twins Austin and Miles, 10, and their 2-year-old brother Charlie for these important reminders.
CITY OF CALGARY FRONT- LINE WORKERS
The city is ensuring its front-line workers are protected during the pandemic and has enlisted two companies to help. Alberta Garment Manufacturers, which makes coveralls for city workers, is now making masks. And, Hippo Hug — known for creating custom-made weighted blankets — is also now sewing fabric face coverings for transit operators and creating up to 1,600 masks daily. “We always joke if it requires fabric and a sewing machine, we can do it,” says owner Leslie Brooks.
SEWING FOR NURSES
To support front-line nurses, volunteers in Airdrie are sewing handmade scrub bags for them. The idea is that nurses put their work scrubs inside the bag while still at work and then toss the entire bag in the wash when they get home. This prevents the spreading of work “germs” into other parts of their households. The Facebook group Bags for the Front-lines (Calgary and area) has attracted over 200 volunteers, including members of local Hutterite colonies.
“I thought this would be a tiny project, but we’re still going strong, and it has turned into a full-on operation,” said Nicole Proseilo, who co-ordinates the project along with Janette Rees, Jolanda Galeano and Linda King.