The John F. Scarpa Foundation donated 1,000 KN95 respirator masks for the City of Vineland’s police officers, firefighters, public works employees and Emergency Medical Services personnel. Scarpa also donated 1,000 KN95 masks to Inspira Health. KN95 respirator masks form a protective seal around a wearer’s mouth and nose. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), they filter out at least 95 percent of particles in the air and are necessary to protect health care workers from exposure to novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

One thousand surgical masks were also donated each to Stockton and Rowan universities. Surgical masks are made with multi-layered fabric with bands that hook over ears, according to the CDC. They are designed to provide a physical barrier that prevents the spread of germs from person to person.

“Times like these are unprecedented and require our community to come together to beat this pandemic,” Scarpa said. “As a native Vinelander, I wanted to do my part to support our first responders and our neighbors.”

Vineland Mayor Anthony Fanucci said, “We graciously thank John and know his gift will undoubtedly save lives here.”