Mayor Eric Garcetti has announced the formation of “L.A. Protects,” a new partnership to organize Los Angeles’ fashion and garment industry to make protective gear and other medical supplies for frontline workers. The initial target for the initiative is the manufacturing of 5 million non-medical masks for people who need protection – grocery store workers, non-medical staff in hospitals, and others providing essential services during the COVID-19 crisis.
Kaiser Permanente is a partner in L.A. Protects, having provided the specifications for a non-medical mask that is being open-sourced to the public.
“The number-one mission right now is saving lives,” said Mayor Garcetti. “Our manufacturing sector is unmatched anywhere, and the ingenuity of working people will help us get through this emergency. L.A. Protects will save people – and save jobs.”
L.A. Protects could help businesses that might otherwise have to close and furlough staff, by connecting them with opportunities to provide an essential service. L.A. Protects will match approved manufacturing companies with essential industries in need of masks – including the health care industry, grocers, take-out restaurants, delivery services, as well as food and beverage manufacturers.