NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — As COVID-19 continues to affect communities across the world, the Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) says their inmates have stepped up to help produce protective equipment for Tennesseans.
In a partnership with TRICOR, inmates at the West Tennessee State Penitentiary, Morgan County Correctional Complex textile programs and the Northeast Correctional Complex recycling program have made masks, gowns and face shields.
Since April, 231,563 cloth masks, 20,089 Tyvek gowns and 120,000 face shields have been made over 4,285 man hours.
Inmate Quinton Sanders has worked in the TRICOR textile program since 2012. He says it has been fulfilling to provide others with the masks and gowns.
"There's a dire need. Being able to make these masks makes me feel like I am saving someone's life or that I get to help save them and it has been a blessing," Sanders said. "I have been working double shifts when I can because I think we all have a purpose. We all pray that they find a cure soon."
The masks, gowns and face shields will continue to be produced as long as there is a need.
