BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Mask Relief, a local nonprofit, has donated 1,000 hand-sewn masks to Clinica Sierra Vista locations here in Kern County.

The announcement comes just one day before National Nurses Week begins May 6.

"Healthcare workers across the county are battling against COVID-19 with limited access to personal protective gear," said Julie Boyer, founder of Mask Relief. "Due to a critical nationwide shortage, specialized face masks, such as N95 respirator masks are in short supply."

The specialized masks include a pocket for a filter and is made from the same material as hospital scrubs.

This fabric is ideal, reusable, easily sterilized and can be produced in mass scale to meet immediate and critical needs.

The donated masks will be distributed over the next week.

"This donation is unique and significant in many ways. It can not only help our frontline workers continue to protect themselves, but it prolongs the use of Clinica's PPE and reduces the strain on our supply chains," said Tim Calahan Director of Public Relations for Clinica Sierra Vista. "This donation couldn't have come at a better time, as we celebrate our nurses this week!"

Check here for more information on Mask Relief, they are also always looking for volunteers to help produce masks.

Clinica is always in need of Personal Protective Gear.