Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Pelham Civic Association.

(January 24 – Pelham, NY) They have a name for volunteers who stand outside for hours with a wind chill of 22 degrees giving away free face masks to their Pelham neighbors to keep them safe: “The Pelham Civics.”

On a cold, windy Saturday (January 23) The Pelham Civic Association – one of New York State’s most active charitable, volunteer organizations – picked up where they left off last year and distributed free face masks to Pelham and Pelham Manor residents. According to Pelham Civic President Michael Ming, “The responsibility of the Pelham Civic Association includes providing critical support for our community. Right now this encompasses the protection of our Seniors, Families, and the Less Fortunate as we battle COVID-19 by Masking Up!”

Thanks to the benevolent donation by Bona Fide Masks (www.bonafidemasks.com) of 7,000 FDA Authorized KN95 Respirator Masks (1400 packs of 5), hundreds of Pelham individuals and families drove up or walked up to the “distribution center” the Civics created in the PMHS Parking lot from 10am to 1 pm.

John Boyce, Civics VP of Strategy & Operations, continued, “Once our Board of Directors agreed to the idea, a committee was quickly formed, and in eight short days we were able to plan, create, produce, and successfully mobilize the initiative.”

Tim Case, Civics VP of Fundraising, added, “It was an absolute team effort by the Civics. We all had our specific responsibilities and tasks. It’s simply the way we do things.”

According to Rich Davidian, Civics VP of Community Programs, “We are very fortunate to have the constant support of Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Champ, the Pelham School District, and the PTA Council who helped us promote the event throughout the schools and provided us with the parking lot for easy distribution.”

About the Pelham Civics: Founded in 1939, the Pelham Civic Association is dedicated to assisting our Students/Youth, the Elderly, the Physically/Mentally Challenged, and the Financially Needy with programs, projects and events throughout the year. For more information, please email [email protected] or visit pelhamcivics.org.