SOLON, Ohio — The coronavirus crisis has led to people helping one another, neighbors lending a helping hand, and now teenagers are doing their party to help their community. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), is the life-saving equipment first responders need. It's in high demand and short supply.
That's why the leaders at the Cleveland Chapter of Sewa International decided to help. The non-profit started a six-week youth engagement program using 3D printers to make face shields.
"We thought we should engage with the youth and also give them an opportunity to contribute to COVID-19 relief efforts," said Viji Vijay.
Three local students are part of the program.
"3D printing is great for architectural models. It's much better, especially in a time of crisis like we are in now, to give back to the community, said Grant Maiorana, Solon High School. The goal is to make and distribute 500 face shields by July 1.
"3D printing is foreign to me, the fact that these kids are computer savvy and can do this for their community is a very heartwarming thing," said Mark Urlaub, R.N. Menorah Park.
Face shields were delivered to Menorah Park on Sunday.
"Their acts of kindness are unbelievable," said Richard Schwalberg, Chief Operating Officer Menorah Park.
But organizers want these face shields to reach people that all of us interact with every day.
"Think of restaurants, the servers, busboys, the pharmacists, if you can protect more people in addition to fire, police and hospitals, I think we will be able to decrease the spread," said Sunil Narahari, Sewa International Cleveland Chapter.
The students made a special delivery to workers at Subway and Antonio's Pizza in Solon on Saturday.
"In some cases, I can see the impact I'm having on people and to me that is humbling and it shows how someone doing an action to help other people can change another person's life," said Rohan Kumar, University School.
"It feels pretty good because you know you're making a direct impact on someone's life," said Krishna Mukunda, Hawken School.
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