WACO, TX — Powers Embroidery is usually busy this time of the year trying to fill cap and gown, class rings, and letterman jacket orders.
But this year, they're warehouse is focusing on a new demand - masks.
“Between early April to late May to the end of school is when we see a lot of letter jacket orders coming in. This year because of COVID-19, we are not even able to process what we have right now,” said Brandon Collins.
Powers Embroidery doesn’t just make letterman jackets.
The company also sends out class rings, cap and gowns, and much more.
Production has been halted during the COVID-19 crisis.
“Our folks here were looking for ways. They were asking how can we help. How can we as a company do something that will have a positive impact and not just staying at home,” said Brandon Collins.
Employees volunteered to come in and create prototypes for PPE masks.
With material typically used for cap and gowns, they’re now making facial masks and coverings for health care providers.
“They tried several different prototypes that they found online for patterns and they were able to land on one that is only two pieces so they can sew it in about five minutes, and it will rest around the face without having a hole around the nose where air can get in,” said Brandon Collins.
Collins estimates they can make around 75 masks per day.
With kids out of the classroom, it’s a way they can still show appreciation to first responders.
Powers Embroidery is used to helping celebrate special moments for seniors in their final year, and now they are saving lives.