When the COVID-19 pandemic started to increase in March, a group of volunteers from Southampton, Sauble and surrounding area came together in April to answer the need for surgical scrub caps for front-line workers in hospitals, nursing homes, medical and dental clinics throughout Grey and Bruce Counties.
The group thought it a novel idea to create caps that were colourful and patterned, each unique, for their local hospital staff. What began as one hospital exploded to include all 10 hospitals throughout Grey and Bruce counties and then it moved on to the nursing homes, medical and dental centres and retirement homes.
The ‘production team’ has also continued to grow to over 50 volunteers whose efforts of making surgical scrub caps has hit a milestone of over 4,000.
While the group thought it would be winding down the project in June once all workers in the 18 nursing homes and 10 hospitals had a cap, the volunteers are now continuing to provide top-ups recognizing that it is difficult for front-line workers with only one cap that must be washed after each shift.
Thanks to Bruce Power and other sponsors, the group now has funds to purchase another order of fabric and buttons.
“We just delivered a huge number of caps to the nursing home in Meaford,” says
organizer Rev. Darlyne (Dar) Rath.
“We can’t tell you how thrilled the group is to receive thank you notes and photos from staffs wearing our colourful caps – it means so much to know how the caps are bringing smiles to everyone wearing them.”
Testimonials:
Thank you for the lovely box of caps for the Markdale hospital staff. My staff are absolutely amazed at the patterns, colors and beautiful buttons. It is obvious they are made with love from our Grey Bruce community. As healthcare workers we are truly blessed with the outpouring of support and encouragement from groups such as yours. Your commitment and assistance to all of us throughout the frontlines of Grey Bruce is truly outstanding. Thank you for your partnership during COVID times.
Warm Regards,
Kylie Nowak I RN MN
Interim Program Manager
Grey Bruce Health Services Markdale
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Hi Darlyne,
My name is Shannon and I am a nurse at Markdale and Owen Sound hospital. I just wanted to truly thank you and the team of sewers for making the surgical hats for our staff. They are beautiful. All of you have put so much time and energy into making these for us. We wear them every day. The patterns are so nice, the material is light which is key when working 12 hour shifts and the buttons are beautiful. We really appreciate your kindness and for caring about the healthcare workers in our community. You have put a smile on our faces during this crazy time.
Thanks again,
Shannon
