Stafford now has a warehouse to combat coronavirus, needs more supplies

With supplies running short and localities searching for any amidst the coronavirus outbreak, Stafford County is working to provide these supplies to their community, with the help of volunteers and donors.

Stafford County has set up a warehouse and supply chain to address this supply shortage. Working with members of Stafford Fire and Rescue, Stafford’s volunteer Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), and Team Rubicon, a veterans disaster relief organization, The county will be accepting public donations between Monday and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

“I thank our volunteers and staff in how quickly this warehouse operation was organized. We recognized a community shortage of certain items, and we wanted to seek donations and leave store items available for the public. Again, we are grateful for our volunteers who are helping to operate the warehouse as well as all the members of the public who have asked how they can help.” said Stafford Fire and Rescue Chief Joseph Cardello.

Donations can be made at the warehouse located in the Stafford Fire Training and Logistics Center. Donors will drive up to the warehouse entrance, honk their horns, and volunteers will come out to take their donations to minimize exposure to the coronavirus. 

Items needed include:

• All unused face masks
• Handmade masks
• Few nitrile gloves
• Fabric, elastic and thread for masks
• New plastic sheeting and duct tape
• Surgical or isolation gowns
• Hand sanitizer and surface disinfectants
• Paper towels

The warehouse will not be accepting any food or drinks as they will not be able to store them.

Potential donors can call the warehouse at 540-658-5304 or send an email at ecodonations@staffordcountyva.gov in advance to notify a drop-off.