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Sault gets a transport full of masks

Donated by the United Way, the masks will be distributed by Sault Transit
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Sault Transit drivers and passengers will soon have access to free face masks, thanks to a generous donation from United Way of Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District.

"The United Way has been fortunate to obtain a transport truckload of masks," says Brent Lamming, the city's director of community services.

"They are a polypropylene non-woven 67 per cent, melt blown filter 33 per cent, non-medical Level 1, three-ply masks that are suitable for general use for both staff and members of the public," Lamming says in a report to be presented to Mayor Provenzano and city councillors on Monday.

"The United Way reached out to city staff to determine if the excess supply could be utilized locally by front-line staff providers and members of the public where possible."

The city is expected to accept the donation at Monday's City Council meeting.

The masks will be distributed to city departments that need them, and as long as supplies last, will be made available to bus drivers and passengers, and also to members of the public entering city-owned community centres.

Sault Transit has offered to serve as the main point of contact for receiving and distributing the masks.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic started in March, the City of Sault Ste. Marie has bought between 25,000 and 30,000 face masks for use by municipal employees and members of the public.

Monday's City Council meeting will be livestreamed on SooToday starting at 4:30 p.m.