In times of need Americans are known for coming together and doing good. That includes companies that choose to retool their manufacturing plants to meet the needs of the country and individuals who use their skills to help others.
During World War II manufacturing companies switched from making cars and other commodities to building “airplanes, ships, vehicles, guns and ammunition for the war.”
– PBS Learning Media
With the Coronavirus (Covid-19) causing closure of so many businesses and a shortage of medical supplies, American companies are once again stepping up to the plate. Companies that used to make clothing, spirits, or automobiles are retooling to make masks, medical grade sanitizer, and ventilators. Craft groups and sewers are are also stepping up to meet the demand for face masks.
A search online returns a myriad of articles that pay tribute on a national, grouped level, but this post is to recognize the individual companies and people. These are companies, and crafters, that might be known mostly in their own towns or states. Below is the list of companies and crafters I know about from social media accounts I follow or found, but if you know of one not listed, send me a message and I’ll add them to the list. When this time of crisis for our country and the world is over, let’s remember these companies and crafters and what they did for their country.
Companies
These are distillers that make small batch, handcrafted spirits during normal economic times. During this crisis, they have chosen to retool and make sanitizer for the medical industry that is currently in sort supply of this much needed product.
Located in Woodinville, WA. Manufactures Whiskey. Per an Instagram post they are retooling to make “high proof ethanol so we can produce hand sanitizer for our local medical community, government organizations and high-risk individuals.”
Located in Eugene, OR. Manufactures organic vodka and flavored citrus liqueurs. Now making hand sanitizer for businesses and individuals.
Located in Nashville, TN. Manufactures Whiskey and Gin. Their site states “We have spoken to the leaders of our local and regional hospital systems, and the need for more sanitizer to critical health services is both huge and urgent. We are pushing our production straight to our front line medical community.”
This is a sampling of the companies but many more are stepping up and helping their fellow Americans in need.
Crafters
Craft groups and individuals are also stepping up to help. Due to the shortage of face masks, sewing circles and individuals are making masks for those in the medical field. These are craft skilled accounts I have found that are participating in the mask effort.
Tea Hill Cottage: Instagram @teahillcottage
Niki Gnome Maker: Instagram @nicnacalleygnomes
Swamp Lids: Instagram @swamplids
Kids Need More Art: Instagram @kidsneedmoreart
RosePosy Designs: Instagram @roseisarosetoo
Rockin B Clothing: Instagram @rockinbclothing
I know there are many more. If you know of someone, or a group, sewing masks, give them a shout out by tagging them on the Instagram post for this article!
