Sustainable face masks available to students on campus for pre-approved activities
Ryerson University has partnered with a small Canadian company to provide face masks to all students on campus. Photo by Naomi Chen.
As we kick off this fall semester, student well-being continues to be Ryerson’s first priority. In line with Toronto Public Health directives, the university has implemented various health measures across campus to ensure safety.
Alongside instituting various cleaning protocols, deploying helpful signage, and hand sanitizer stations, the university has partnered with a small Canadian company called TakeCare (external link) to provide face masks to all students on campus.
“Being able to ensure physical health and well-being during this time is a concern for all of us, and to help support our students in meeting health guidelines, every student who comes to campus will have the option of picking a reusable Ryerson mask at no charge,” said Vice-Provost, Students Jen McMillen. “We do not encourage students to come to campus specifically to collect a mask but do welcome them to grab one if they are on campus for pre-approved activities, such as a class or appointment.”
How to get your masks
Students with courses with an on-campus component will get their masks delivered to them at their place of learning while those with pre-approved activities on campus such as picking up textbooks or their OneCard can get their masks during service hours at the SLC and the MAC. It is important to note that students are not required to come to campus solely to get masks at this time. Masks will be distributed more broadly when a full return to campus is confirmed.
About TakeCare masks
TakeCare Supply face masks are designed and produced locally in Toronto, for non-healthcare workers. To date, more than 500,000 reusable, non-medical masks have been sold to individuals, companies, and a variety of institutions.
Sharing his thoughts on the collaboration, Kevin Vuong, co-founder of TakeCare, said, "As a Canadian social enterprise, we are proud to work with a leading institution like Ryerson that shares our values for community health and well-being and dedication to evidence-based, sustainable and socially responsible manufacturing.”
Safety is our collective responsibility
As we adapt to the changes due to the pandemic, we must collectively respect all safety regulations, ensuring that we look out for ourselves and others. The recently adopted Face Mask Policy and well-being page provides clear guidelines on areas where the masks must be worn such as enclosed public spaces and common areas, and when it is okay to temporarily do without, such as while receiving services, or actively engaging in an athletic or fitness activity.
Providing these masks is part of the Office of the Vice-Provost, Students commitment to support students settling in for the new semester. Find more information about programs and initiatives offered by the Office of the Vice-Provost, Students at RU4U.