Assemblymember Adam C. Gray (D-Merced) and the Central Valley Community Foundation on Friday delivered 6,000 facemasks to three essential community organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Salvation Army of Merced, the Merced Food Bank, and members of United Domestic Workers of America each received 2,000 masks.

“The volunteers, members, and staff of these three organizations are truly on the front lines of this pandemic,” Gray said. “Without their dedication, many people would go hungry and others would have nowhere to stay. Without in-home supportive services, thousands of people living with disabilities and senior citizens would be unsafe or uncared for in their own homes.”

Astrid Zuniga, who is with the United Domestic Workers union, said, “Our members are frontline workers who help keep our seniors and people with disabilities safe at home and out of hospitals and nursing homes.

“But we have been mostly forgotten when it comes to protective gear. That’s why Assemblymember Gray’s donation of protective masks means so much to us. … Thanks to Assemblymember Gray and his staff for arranging this donation which will help us keep our clients and ourselves safe during this pandemic.”

330 Cases, Seven Deaths In Merced County

More than 330 people in Merced County have been stricken with COVID-19 and seven have died during the pandemic. There continues to be a shortage of protective equipment for those working outside medical facilities.

“These masks are critical to meet the more than 500% increase in need for services and helping to keep the virus from spreading amongst the homeless and elderly,” said Capt. Ryan Miller of the Salvation Army of Merced

The Central Valley Community Foundation, whose goal is to cultivate smart philanthropy, started in 1966 and serves a six-county region from Merced to Tulare.

Assemblymember Gray’s office also is organizing a blood drive for the Merced area on June 16. It will be the second one put together by his office.