6,000 Masks Distributed to Rye, Merchants Can Request Allotment

On Tuesday, the City of Rye received 6,000 masks from Westchester County for use in the fight against the global COVID-19 pandemic. One thousand masks are being distributed to local merchants while the balance of the allotment will be utilized by Rye’s municipal workforce.

“This most recent supply allows us to provide masks to anyone working “front line.” This obviously includes restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations etc. It also includes schools, not for profits, religious organizations etc.” Rye City Manager Greg Usry told MyRye.com. “When we received the notice on Friday, I wanted to make sure that everyone that qualified had access, we also have to make sure that essential employees at the City (Police, Fire, EMS, DPW) are set.”

“These washable, re-usable masks are being delivered in the first instance to Rye businesses that are permitted to continue people-facing activities during the health emergency,” said Rye Mayor Josh Cohn. The masks were donated by Hanes Brands Inc. The donations, facilitated by New York State, are being distributed by Westchester County to each municipality. “We are very grateful to Hanes and the County for them,” said Cohn.

Local distribution of the 6,000 face masks to local businesses is being overseen by Councilwoman Julie Souza. As of Wednesday morning, Souza received requests for 250 of the masks. Local Rye businesses can request masks by emailing Souza ( jsouza@ryeny.gov) with their requested quantity and use case (business use).