Our Cricut community has continually amazed us with its dedication and resilience. Time and again, you have come together to support those in need, answering the call with unwavering commitment. Recently, your efforts led to the creation of nearly 300,000 face masks (290,064 to be exact) to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Thousands more are being hand-cut to meet the ongoing demand. Today, we want to highlight an important cause beyond the healthcare sector: the need for masks among law enforcement officers.

The Critical Role of Law Enforcement During the Pandemic

In the United States, there are nearly 800,000 law enforcement officers who work tirelessly to ensure public safety and uphold the law. Their commitment to protecting others often puts them at increased risk of contracting COVID-19. Unlike healthcare professionals, officers cannot always maintain social distancing due to the nature of their duties, making the need for personal protective equipment (PPE) even more critical.

The PPE Shortage and Its Impact on Law Enforcement

The global shortage of N95 respirators has put a significant strain on PPE supplies for many professions. The CDC has acknowledged that homemade masks can serve as a last resort when standard PPE is unavailable. In Riverton, Utah, a police department is facing a dire need for these homemade masks to reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure among its officers.

Sergeant Dan Thomas’s Appeal for Community Support

Sergeant Dan Thomas of the Riverton Police Department is familiar with challenging situations. With two tours of duty in Iraq with the Marine Corps and 16 years of service as a law enforcement officer, including 14 years with the SWAT team, he has seen his share of adversity. However, the current shortage of PPE has brought a new level of concern. To address this issue, Sergeant Thomas turned to Facebook, reaching out to the community for support in obtaining homemade face masks.

How the Cricut Community Can Make a Difference

We wanted to help Sergeant Thomas amplify his message and raise awareness about this urgent need. Many other police departments are in similar situations, facing shortages of PPE and relying on community support. We have recently posted free patterns for cutting homemade face masks, and we urge you to continue your efforts.

Steps to Support Local Law Enforcement

To contribute, please check with your local law enforcement agencies to see if they are accepting donations of homemade face masks. Contact them using their non-emergency phone numbers to arrange drop-off locations and times. Your contributions can provide crucial protection for officers, their families, and the communities they serve.

The Power of Community in Times of Crisis

The spirit of the Cricut community shines brightly in these challenging times. By coming together to create and donate masks, you are making a significant impact beyond the healthcare sector. Your support helps ensure that those who are on the front lines of public safety have the necessary protection to carry out their important work.

Continue Your Efforts and Stay Informed

We encourage you to keep making masks and supporting those in need. As the situation evolves, stay informed about the latest guidelines and needs from local law enforcement agencies and other public service sectors. Your ongoing dedication and generosity are invaluable in this global fight against COVID-19.

Thank you for your continued efforts and support. Together, we can make a difference and help protect those who are working tirelessly to keep our communities safe.

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