TWIN FALLS, Idaho — The city of Ketchum passed its face mask mandate on July 6, requiring residents to wear face coverings in public when social distancing cannot be followed. For residents who have had difficulty obtaining masks, one Ketchum resident donated $10,000 to for the production and distribution of face masks.
Kathleen Britt worked with Ketchum Mayor Neil Bradshaw and Davis Embroidery, a local screen printing and promotional product shop. The money will provide the city with 3,000 customized masks that residents can have for free. Each mask reads "Ketchum, Small Town Big Life."
When asked what inspired her to make such a donation, Britt said, "I just felt that it would be a really lovely thing to give back and encourage people to wear the masks, and they can take them home as souvenirs."
The masks are not strictly for Ketchum residents; people who visit or travel through who need a mask can pick one up as well. So far, more than 50% of the face masks have been claimed by the community. The reception from residents and city officials has been very enthusiastic, primarily because of the financial strain the pandemic has put on the city's economy.
"All cities across the country are going to have some financial belt-tightening to do, because of the hit to the economy that this pandemic has done so now it's a question of who can step up and help out, and this is a great example of someone stepping up and helping out," said Mayor Bradshaw.
Kathleen has donated to numerous organizations within the area over time. She is considering making a donation going towards masks again if needed.
"If they do run out, yes, I would look to my charitable gift fund and see if I could again maybe donate another 3,000 masks. I would definitely consider it," said Britt.
The masks are available at Ketchum's City Hall and the Community Library.
