Helping and Protecting sister countries

Helping and protecting sister countries is the name of the international relations project made by Altrusa of San Sebastián, Puerto Rico. The project responded to the need of face masks as countries battled the coronavirus pandemic. The purpose of the project was to help by sending “survival kits” to Africa and Dominican Republic for free distribution.

We produced six hundred survival kits, which contained a mask, two pre-cut masks, thread, needles, instructions for sewing, a hand soap and educational information on the importance of hand hygiene.

Kits were sent to Africa and the Dominican Republic for free distribution with the support of three community partnerships: EDP University, Ferries del Caribe and Resurrection Life Church. These organizations supported us with the sewing and shipping of the kits, as well as donating materials and supplies.

In addition to expanding international relations, we raised awareness in the local community about the importance of masks, their use, cleaning and preparation through the handouts prepared and through the Radio Program broadcasted.

The use of face masks can contribute to control the corona virus if available and properly used. Encouraging own production with guidance and awareness helps improve the accessibility of face masks particularly among the vulnerable population. For Altrusa, this project was saving lives with face masks.