YORK Co., Va. - Making masks has become a new hobby for some folks during the pandemic, but others are going beyond the sewing machine.
We met two York County women who are very passionate about making face coverings for those currently in uniform and those who have served.
I made my way to the backyard, but there was no sign of our guests of honor, Grace Holland and Wanda Chamberlain. So, I called the person who nominated them and asked them to bring the nominees outside.
Noticing they must be wondering why we’re here, I told the women we heard good things about them. We got an email from a family member, Mary Holland.
“This has been a labor of love by helping to protect individuals who are essential personnel and at-risk people,” Mary read as her voice quivered. “I would love to see them honored for their kindness, many hours of work and for giving hope and protection to the recipients of their masks.”
For those reasons, we gave Grace and Wanda a News 3 People Taking Action award, along with a $300 gift card from our community partner, Southern Bank.
“Oh, wow – thank you so much!” they exclaimed.
We asked them why they do what they do.
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“Just because…” Grace began.
“[We wanted] to do our part, to try to protect people,” Wanda finished. They’ve been hard at work creating quite the variety.
Since the pandemic started, they've made about 800 masks, dropping them off at various locations: The VA Medical Center, Norfolk Naval Shipyard, [JEB-] Little Creek and Yorktown Naval Weapons Station.
“My husband's a veteran, and veterans mean a lot to me,” Wanda explained, “so I love my country and I want to help the men and women that fight for our country.”
To nominate someone for a People Taking Action Award, click here.
