Your coronavirus mask could support vulnerable communities in Madagascar

There’s certainly no shortage of options when it comes to reusable face masks, with everyone from Thought Clothing and Plastic Freedom, to Urban Green Company offering their own versions of eco-friendly masks. Even local shops are selling masks handmade by people in the community as a way of fundraising for others in the area. We love knowing that our face masks aren’t harming the planet and are giving back to others, so were excited to hear about SEED Madagascar‘s initiative.

The environmental and humanitarian charity works to help the people and animals of the African island through various projects such as building toilets and schools, to protecting turtles nesting sites and improving primate habitats.

During Coronavirus pandemic, the people of Madagascar, which is one of the world’s poorest countries, have faced additional challenges. Few health services exist, people suffer compromised immune systems, and mortality rates are among the worst in the world. With an estimated 10% of the population predicted to die from the pandemic, face masks have become incredibly important to prevent the spread of the virus.

Helping to address the issue and provide vital support for the people of Madagascar, SEED Madagascar is now selling face masks produced in the UK for £5, featuring one of Madagascar’s most iconic inhabitants, the ringed lemur! Your purchase will go a long way in supporting local communities, and volunteers are also being asked to help create masks for sales in the UK.

The proceeds from the masks’ sales will help to fund the charity’s production and distribution of masks to local communities, and will go towards commissioning masks to be made by skilled community members on the island.

“We can’t over estimate how vitally important helping those in Madagascar with the spread of COVID-19 is,” Mark Jacobs, SEED Madagascar director, said. “It’s been difficult controlling the virus in rich, developed countries, so it’s terrifying to think about what the final toll might be in poor, developing countries.”

To find out more, visit: madagascar.enthuse.com