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The Outer Banks Mask Makers hosted second a community drive-through at Nags Head Town Hall from 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. on May 2.

The OBMM group was formed over a month ago and has since grown to over 400 members. Their goal is to provide masks for anyone and everyone in the area and beyond that is in need of masks during COVID-19.

On Saturday, several members of the group gathered at town hall with about 700 masks to give away for free. Community members were asked to “drive-through” and remain in their vehicles while OBMM members carefully distributed the correctly sized mask.

Joining the gathering was local musician Jeremy Russell. Russell was seated beside the mask maskers while he sang and played guitar to those that drove in. Rebecka McDonald, OBMM member, said Russell’s music was intended to “cheer us up and liven up the day.”

Also present at the community event were local Pastor Joey Fitzgerald, Kelly Macko and Madeline Thompson. These three were offering a drive-through prayer service for those that wished to attend.

Macko said that throughout the time since COVID-19 hit the Outer Banks, she’s noticed an increase in people who are turning to prayer as a source of hope and stability. “I’m glad we got to come do this for the community,” she said.

A couple members, including McDonald and Jacqueline Duetel, dressed up in dinosaur costumes for children that were present at the event. “As we know, there are some of us that are not able to leave the kids at home because we don’t have the support,” McDonald said.

Therefore, the costumes were meant to bring a smile to the young faces that were there to receive masks.

The OBMM were accepting cash donations for Beach Food Pantry on Saturday. John VanderMyde and The VanderMyde Realty Estate Group graciously offered to match dollar for dollar the amount raised at the event.

McDonald reported that at the end of the day, the group raised $2000 in donations. As a result, $4000 was donated to Beach Food Pantry.

Ruth Stetson, founder of the OBMM, said through the group she has met many new locals and formed bonds with people who were strangers just a couple months ago. “We’ve all made new friends,” she said.

Although McDonald said the group is most likely not going to host another community event of this caliber, they will continue making masks for those who need them.

If you or someone you know of is in need of a mask, message the OBMM at https://www.facebook.com/groups/813054092515479.

READ ABOUT MORE COMMUNITY NEWS AND EVENTS HERE.

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