Request for masks rise as mandate takes effect

A local non-profit that makes 3D printed masks has seen an uptake in requests since the Lincoln Mayor announced a face mask requirement.

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – A local non-profit that makes 3D printed masks have seen an uptake in requests since the Lincoln Mayor announced a face covering requirement.

The group is called Team LNK-Grass Roots Campaign: Hack the Pandemic 2020. Made up of 13 volunteers, some from across the country, the group has been making masks since the COVID outbreak back in mid-March. The founder of the non-profit, Stephaney Peterson, saw a Facebook post that later turned into a campaign that sends masks to people in need all over the country. As of Monday, the team has donated 2,000 masks from Florida to New York and of course right here at home in Lincoln.

The campaign has really taken off since the Mayor announced plans of mask requirements in public indoor places. “We got over 100 requests in about 24 hours and now five minutes ago we are at 403” Peterson said Monday.

These are not your everyday masks, they are 3D printed with filters and made with special materials to make wearing a mask as comfy as possible. Due to the massive amount of requests right here in Lincoln, the group is putting their out of state orders on hold, putting Nebraska as a priority.

Peterson did not know any of the other members of the team until the campaign started and volunteers reached out asking how they could help. Craig Cheney, another Lincoln resident on the team, is part of the assembly line, creating the masks and putting them together. From volunteers to family, all 13 members of the team work together to get these masks to where they need to go. Peterson wants to thank all of her teammates for the dedication and commitment to making the masks and helping others.

The masks are at no cost and the company functions solely off donations. Donations are not required, however, if a customer would like to donate it is encouraged so that the team may continue to help and protect as many people as possible.

If you are in need of a mask or would like to make a donation click here to see Team LNK-Grass Roots Campaign: Hack the Pandemic 2020’s Facebook page.