Black Physicians Handed Out Face Masks and Provided Prevention Tips to the Community
Last weekend, The Cream City Medical Society (CCMS) held “Stronger Together”, a free educational mask distribution event that aimed to educate community members on COVID-19 prevention methods outside of Midtown’s Pick N Save.
A handful of Black physicians passed out handmade face masks and informative COVID-19 handbills for four hours. The physicians illustrated social distancing and the correct way to wear a face mask. They had noticed people were wearing dirty masks or only wore them halfway on.
Black physicians came together to spread useful knowledge and provide much needed resources to the community. (Picture by Dashanay Scott)
“There’s a lot of negative talk about this virus, we just need to take our pulse, and slow down,” said CCMS President Dr. Kevin Izard.
CCMS is the first and only Milwaukee-based 501(c) organization of African American physicians that has the mission to act as a liaison and eliminate inequalities within underrepresented communities. The nonprofit also wants to influence young African Americans to become health professions.
CCMS is a charter chapter of the National Medical Association.
CCMS distributed free masks from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Midtown’s Pick N Save. (Picture by Dashanay Scott)
The mask distribution was a collaborative effort from various Milwaukee organizations who utilized community talents to fight against COVID-19.
“It’s a reminder that we all have to stick together, and advocate for our students and patients,” said Dr. Izard.
Hundreds of masks were donated to CCMS and Dr. Izard was surprised by how many people wanted to help. CCMS plans to donate masks to other organizations and to organize another mask distribution.
“The science is not very strong, but it’s ultimately trying to prevent you from spreading the viruses to others…someone more vulnerable,” he said.
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