Photo: courtesy Neil Gottesman
Coastal Hospice Volunteer Manager Renee Smith receives a batch of face masks on Monday that were manufactured by an Ocean Pines-based volunteer group for emergency responders and other essential workers.

By Greg Ellison

(April 16, 2020) Hundreds of face masks were delivered to emergency responders and other essential workers last weekend, courtesy of Ocean Pines residents who formed a group to make them.

In addition to providing face masks for the Ocean Pines Fire and Police Departments, the volunteer group delivered masks to grocery store clerks and, on Monday, for Coastal Hospice staff members.

Helping to launch the effort was Neil Gottesman, a Coastal Hospice volunteer and lifetime member of the Ocean Pines Fire Department.

“We made close to 400 masks between all the people around that have helped out,” he said. “It’s been just incredible.”

The effort came to life after Gottesman learned both the Ocean Pines Fire Department and Coastal Hospice needed backup face masks.

“I think at this point everyone has what they need,” he said.

After recently issuing a call for volunteers and materials, especially elastic, Gottesman said roughly five-dozen people signed up to participate.

“It’s been a community-wide effort,” he said.

Gottesman said after soliciting help from cohorts in the Ocean Pines Pickleball Club, Pine’eer Craft Club member Carol Quinto enlisted fellow members primarily for sewing duties.

As word of the endeavor spread, other nearby communities got involved.

“Glen Riddle and River Run have folks helping us too,” he said. “Then a woman who has a home up here but also lives down in Florida now is sending us up masks.”

After the face mask production got underway, more needs surfaced, with the volunteers also sending supplies to several OPA departments, including public works.

“We also dropped off some over at Food Lion for the cashiers,” he said. “They’re part of the community too.”

After sending the last load out on Monday for Coastal Hospice, the volunteers will take a hiatus.

“Everyone has currently what they need,” he said. “Hopefully, we don’t get a second wave on this because then they’re going to be needing more again.”

Gottesman said if additional help is required, the volunteers are ready to shift back into action.

“A lot of the people that were doing it said, ‘Gee, I’m glad to get a break, but if you need me we’re here,’” he said. “Definitely everyone’s willing to help out again if need be.”