FABRIC WORKSHOP AND MUSEUM COVID-19 COMMUNITY RESPONSE PLAN

How can we provide a solution that is effective, using our particular strengths and resources? During our temporary closure due to COVID-19, The Fabric Workshop and Museum encourages and supports staff in implementing projects that would help protect health care workers, and/or alleviate the psychological, physical, or financial suffering among our communities. Nonprofit leaders who are interested in the parameters used to develop this effort can download the FWM Community Response Plan Guidelines and modify them for their organizations.

FACE MASK CREATION

A collaborative effort by six staff members, this project focuses on the sewing of face masks for local healthcare providers. With the help of a city-wide medical student volunteer group dedicated to collecting and distributing donated medical supplies to local hospitals in need, nearly 400 masks have been delivered to staff at Mercy Health system, Temple University Hospital, Crozer Chester Medical Center, Project HOME, and University City Hospitality Coalition.  

3D PRINTED FACE SHIELDS

Members of our Studio staff are utilizing the FWM’s Budmen Buildini 3D printer to create Personal Protection Equipment for medical staff. The project focuses on local shortages of face shields and embraces design changes as more effective versions of equipment are being developed to combat COVID-19. So far, 25 face shields have been completed and delivered to a distribution network in Greys Ferry, Philadelphia. 

EMERGENCY GRANT WORKSHOP SESSIONS

In response to the negative financial effects COVID-19 has had on the cultural landscape, funders are rethinking their priorities and making special efforts to be responsive to the needs of individual artists. Emergency grants are being established locally and nationally to support artists and create positive change through new artistic endeavors. FWM staff is volunteering hour-long Emergency Grant Workshop Sessions to eligible applicants, on a first-come first-served basis. Artists can request workshop sessions with FWM at any stage of their grant application process.