It’s not Christmastime anymore, but those of us at Holly Creek Life Plan Community still have a local elf making gifts in the form of colorful cloth masks.
“A few weeks ago I was working, and all the residents were saying ‘We’d love to have masks. How are we going to get any?’ ” shared part-time concierge Susan Hunter. “I heard how some people were sewing their own masks. I thought, that’s something I can do!”
Even though she’s now retired, Susan continues to step back in to help with front desk duties when she’s needed, especially during these challenging times.
“I’ve known some of these residents for almost 15 years,” she explained. “They hold a special place in my heart.”
Susan dug up some of her own cloth and thread, brushed off her sewing skills and sent out a request to her neighborhood Google group for additional materials.
The response was overwhelming—Fabric poured in from neighbors, including T-shirts to provide flexibility and strength for the masks and cotton sheets to “make them soft inside.”
Susan began turning out a new mask in as little as 15-20 minutes, and just recently completed her 150th piece. Now, she’s bringing her colorful creations to Holly Creek en masse, with over a hundred already delivered.
“I wanted to make masks for the residents to encourage them to be safe and help keep our community safe,” she explained. “And I’ve honestly enjoyed it. All the materials are donated, and I have plenty of time. It keeps me busy and gives me a purpose.”
