LOWVILLE, NY — The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that citizens should wear “non-medical, cloth masks” to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus. As of Friday, April 17, 2020, all New Yorkers are required to wear a cloth face-covering or a mask when in a public place, and when unable to maintain social distance. In an effort to comply with State law, and to
keep our community safe, Lewis County is announcing a plan to distribute masks throughout the County.
Lewis County Accepting Donations
This plan is only possible through donations; the County does not have enough cloth face coverings to supply the entire community without your help. The Departments of Public Health, Office for the Aging, and Social Services are accepting donations of handmade masks for distribution to the community. Mask patterns are available on the County website, under “How to Make a Mask.”
Masks can be dropped-off at the Human Services Building at 5274 Outer Stowe Street Lowville from 8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. Monday through Friday. Come to the front door and wait for security. Please provide your name and address with the donation.
Mask Distribution
Community Mask Distribution Schedule – pending the availability of donated masks:
Tuesday, 4/21 at TOPS in Lowville, 7:00 A.M. – 8:30 A.M.
Wednesday, 4/22 at Walmart in Lowville, 7:00 A.M. – 8:30 A.M.
Thursday, 4/23 at TOPS in Lowville, 7:00 A.M. – 8:30 A.M.
The Lewis County Departments of Public Health, Office for the Aging, and Social Services will be announcing mask distribution sites weekly when masks are available. The goal is to distribute masks throughout the County, with distribution locations in the North and South.
Mask Protocol
Social distancing should still be observed at all times. When you must leave your home, you should wear a mask or face covering. According to the CDC, a well-made mask that covers your mouth and nose, and is snugly secured around the ears is best. However, any type of face covering, like a bandana or scarf, is better than nothing if you must to go out.