City of Monterey asking for donations during N95 mask drive for first responders

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION) The City of Monterey is hosting a N95 mask drive for local first responders, and the city is asking for donations.

The city has a supply of personal protective equipment, or PPE, that can be used by firefighters, police officers and public works staff, but because there is a high demand and a potential for more coronavirus emergency calls, the city is asking residents, businesses and nonprofits to donate any spare PPE they may have.

Donations can be dropped off in front of the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce on Camino El Estero starting Wednesday. The Chamber of Commerce will be accepting donations Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through April 10.

The city is only accepting new masks that are sealed in unopened packaging.

“First responders, just like medical personnel, need masks and other safety supplies during this health crisis,” said Fire Chief Gaudenz Panholzer. “Your generous donations of spare masks will help ensure the safety of our personnel and residents, and help stop the spread of the virus in our community.”

If you cannot get to the drop off site, you can call the City of Monterey at 831-646-3760 to arrange a pick up.