Both have been sewing up a storm, with their design evolving over time as they learn more about what works, what is comfortable, and what is doable. Proper filtration has been a hot topic on social media and in the news. A piece of paper with the words “Put Filter Here” is placed protruding out of the pocket of the mask so it can be easily seen and the recipient knows to insert the filter of their choice. Some people are adding HEPA vacuum bags or reusable shopping bags cut to fit, a double layer of “blue shop towels” (used to clean up grease in auto body shops), or PM2.5 activated carbon filters. #LBCmakers have instructed their makers to make the masks with a different fabric on each side, so that it was clear which side went against the face and which should be facing outward. The new mask owner is also instructed to rewash them before wearing.

Porch-to-table

Director Kristen Gritter-Cox jokes about how familiar most of Long Beach has become with her front porch due to the pounds of produce, non-perishables, clothing, and hygiene products that have been left there since the Long Beach Community Table (LBCT) began in September 2018.

Since mid-March, the LBCT has been trying hard to keep up with the logistics of feeding an ever-increasing number of people. Prior to the coronavirus, their volunteers would head to parks to reach those experiencing food insecurity. They’ve had to modify their operations to comply with social distancing measures, while scaling them up to meet the growing demand.

“The need just keeps increasing. Before it was about 6,000 pounds a week, now we are up to 8,000 to 10,000, with far more deliveries to homebound people. But we’re getting a lot of new sources of donations, too,” said Gritter-Cox. “We are really in need of a larger warehouse at this point.”