Face masks and face coverings have become one of the key tools in the fight against COVID-19, here at home and around the world.

In Monroe County, leaders have announced a new initiative to help get more masks in the hands of citizens. Wednesday, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello said the county has been able to use funding through the federal CARES Act to acquire millions of masks for our area.

To date, Bello said the county has helped provide nearly 1.1 million masks to area caregivers, first responders, daycare centers and others. The county is also working with United Way and Foodlink to provide masks to organizations and families. Foodlink is including a month’s supply of masks in its meals.

Wednesday, Bello said the county will be working with the City of Rochester and local towns to distribute thousands more to citizens. Towns and villages will begin to receive masks this weekend for distribution efforts, while 500,000 are being allocated to the city; information for mask distribution in Rochester will be forthcoming.

In all, leaders say more than three million masks will be distributed throughout the county.

Leaders stress that masks and mouth and nose coverings have been instrumental in helping reduce the spread of the coronavirus in our area, and it is crucial not to let up on those efforts.

“My hope is that, by expanding our face covering distribution, we’ll make it easier for people to have face coverings, access to those coverings and eliminate any excuse for not having face coverings when you’re out in public,” said Bello. “We know that as we continue to experience nicer weather, more people are going to be outside. What we’re asking is that you keep your face covering handy for when you’re not able to maintain at least six feet of physical distance.”

The United Way had previously asked community members to donate homemade masks to help local non-profits. To date, the organization says more than 9,000 have been donated.

— 13 WHAM