Uncertainty about the supply of face masks for elderly and vulnerable people has sparked Member for Mallee Emma Kealy into helping spearhead a community drive across the region.

Face marks are compulsory for people venturing into public areas and a shortage of the apparel has prompted the move.

Ms Kealy has teamed with Evoke Kinesiology’s Arnna Pickering and a team of regional ‘captains’ to gather face masks made by the community and provide them to people in need. 

“There are elderly and vulnerable in our community who can’t afford or can’t access disposable masks or reusable masks,” Ms Kealy said.

“This is especially the case for those who don’t have a computer or aren’t on social media. They’re our most vulnerable and we need to make sure they have a mask.”

Ms Kealy said she needed people in need of masks or willing to make and provide them free of charge to call her Horsham office on 5382 0097 or email emma.kealy@parliament.vic.gov.au for information.

She said people could also drop masks at her office step at 114 Firebrace Street, Horsham, or respond to her post on her Facebook page.

Ms Kealy said there would be a supply of masks at her electorate office in Horsham and across her electorate.

“I would like to say a huge thank-you to Arnna for driving this fantastic project, and to those who have already donated masks, including Bianca Inkster and Carlie Streeter at Horsham Amcal Pharmacy, Harvest Church Horsham and Horsham Church of Christ – your support is invaluable,” she said.

“I’m writing to all our constituents over 70 that we know about to give them an update on the new stage-three COVID-19 restrictions, and I’ll offer a free mask if they need one.”

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