TradeWinds making masks, surgical gowns to aid workers
TradeWinds Services Inc., a non-profit organization that serves people with developmental disabilities, is ramping up production on its sewing floor to make masks and surgical gowns in the fight against the COVID-19 coronavirus.
“We’re pivoting to masks and gowns now,” said Jon Gold, chief executive officer of the Merrillville-based agency. They’ll largely go to local police, fire, and medical sectors, he said. “The need appears to be extremely large locally,” he said.
“We’re here to do our part and help out in whatever way we can,” said Lynn Strohl, director of industries.
TradeWinds, at 3198 E. 83rd Place, closed its day services program recently because of the coronavirus but still operates six group homes with around-theclock supervision.
Gold said he thinks TradeWinds could make about 50,000 masks and gowns monthly on the organization’s 25,000-squarefoot sewing floor. He said the machines are set up at least 10 feet apart and hand sanitizers and soaps are at the machines.
Right now, there are about 20 people sewing and about 15 to 20 packing the items.
The organization would like to add a second shift to speed up orders. “Anyone who’s out of employment, it’s more of a simple sew,” Training will be provided, he said. Gold said. He hopes production can move to full force in about two weeks.
He said TradeWinds also makes flags and signs for businesses letting customers know they’re still open or are offering curbside pickup. They can be shipped within 48 hours.
To receive products or apply for sewing positions, contact Strohl at 219-9450100, Ext. 201. Job applications are available on the group’s website, tradewindsnwi.org.
Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.