Gila River Indian Community distributes masks to members

Kyle Knox

Gila River Indian News

Starting Friday, May 8, the Gila River Indian Community conducted a reusable cloth face mask distribution for  Community households and urban members.  Distribution of masks occurred throughout the Community to help slow the spread of COVID-19. This vital piece of PPE (personal protection equipment) comes at a critical time as businesses will open again and stay-at-home orders issued by GRIC Governor Stephen Roe Lewis and AZ Governor Doug Ducey expiring on May 15.

Governor Lewis said, “Cloth face coverings can slow the spread of COVID-19 in GRIC, and I want to thank those that are making today’s cloth mask distribution possible.” 

The day of the distribution Districts 1 through 7 received a surplus of masks based on each district’s population size. Throughout the day, service center staff sorted and grouped bags of masks based on household size. And later that evening, families were able to receive their masks.

Urban members were also included in the distribution, and they were able to pick up masks at two locations in Phoenix and Casa Grande.

Throughout the nation, many establishments and public gathering areas are enforcing the use of face masks of patrons. So as establishments begin servicing the public after May 15, it is essential to keep the masks available when out for the sake of public safety.