Wearing a face mask is something simple we can all do to keep our loved ones and neighbors healthy and safe. Medical science shows that face coverings can help slow the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and save lives.
In North Carolina, a statewide face covering order is in effect. Everyone is required to wear a face covering in public places, whether inside or outside, where physical distancing of 6 feet isn’t possible.
We want to make it easy for everyone in our community to protect themselves and others by wearing a mask. That’s why Atrium Health is leading a private-public partnership, along with Mecklenburg County, Bank of America, Barings, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets, CharMeck Responds Coalition, Coca-Cola Consolidated, Duke Energy, Foundation For The Carolinas, Honeywell, Lowe’s, Marand Builders, National Gypsum, Premier, Red Ventures, Rodgers Builders, Sealed Air, State Farm, Trane Technologies, United Way of Central Carolinas, Wells Fargo, YMCA of Greater Charlotte and many others, to supply over 2 million masks. This private-public partnership showcases how business leaders, health professionals, and government officials can work together to help boost our economy.
Several initiatives have already started to make sure that vulnerable and underserved communities have access to masks to help protect their families.