Family Readiness Group Collecting Masks for Guardsmen

The local National Guard Family Readiness Group is collecting face masks for Guardsmen stationed overseas.

Members of Bravo Company of the 2nd Battalion of the 130th Infantry are serving in the Middle East. The Family Readiness Group is collecting masks, preferably using earth tones like green, brown or black, but whatever colors are available except for print patterns.

The deadline for donations is this Thursday, April 16. Some donors have offered masks in batches of 20, sealed in bags, but any number of masks will be appreciated.

The head of the Family Readiness Group, Emma Qualls, said of the Guardsmen, "They are told to wear them on base to prevent the spread of the virus. They will also wear them in the dining halls to keep safe."

Qualls said they started the effort a few days ago and the response has been great. She said, "We will mail them to our guys so they can disperse them and share the rest with the entire battalion."

You can mail donations to: Emma Qualls, 1206 West Temple Avenue, Effingham, IL 62401.