News release:

(COLUMBUS, Neb.) – Columbus Community Hospital needs donations of homemade masks. The masks are for visitor use, as everyone who enters the hospital is now required to wear a mask for the duration of their visit.

Those able to donate masks are asked to contact Dorothy Bybee, vice president of nursing and patient care services, at dabybee@columbushosp.org or 402-562-4745. Bybee will provide pattern specifics so the masks meet CCH standards.

Donations of homemade masks will be laundered by CCH before visitor distribution. Visitors who receive masks will be given wear and care instructions in English and Spanish on an instructional insert.

Homemade mask donations will be accepted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday at the east entrance of Columbus Community Hospitals’ South Campus, 3005 19th St. Donations of elastic for use in the assembly of the masks will also be accepted at this location.

CCH has been astounded and impressed with community members in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Many generous individuals, nonprofits, private companies and others have reached out to support the hospital’s response to COVID-19.

The community is encouraged to follow safety measures to limit the spread of COVID-19. That includes social distancing and staying at home. Limiting the number of people who come in contact with each other helps reduce the spread of COVID-19.