Author: Sam Buisman

United Way of Dane County will give away free masks and hand sanitizer to community members this Saturday to aid in the fight against COVID-19. 

According to a Wednesday evening press release, the local charity plans to hand out both disposable and reusable face coverings along with hand sanitizer outside its Atwood Avenue location on Saturday, Aug. 1, from 11:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. or until supplies run out. The organization said in the release that it was motivated by Dane County's mandatory mask order to throw this giveaway. 

Director of Events Stefanie Herrick described this event as almost obligatory for United Way in its mission of serving Dane County.

“Our community's greatest resource is our people, and United Way of Dane County is committed to the safety and well-being of all,” said Herrick via press release. “In order to do this, we must take measures to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.” 

The release notes that United Way has a limited supply of hand sanitizer and may not be able to meet the total demand for it. 

United Way's giveaway comes as COVID-19 continues to ravage Dane County, hitting a total of 3,965 confirmed cases on Wednesday, and local, state and national public health authorities urge individuals to wear masks and practice good hygiene and social distancing.