In public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, the use of cloth face coverings to slow the spread of COVID-19 was recently mandated by the Government of Jamaica. Inmates across our correctional centres joined in the fight against covid-19 by ramping up the production of the much-needed resources.

The Department of Correctional Services in its effort to aid in the fight against covid-19 has been producing anti-fog disposable face shields and reusable cloth masks at correctional centres island-wide.

The masks produced by DCS will be used by DCS staff and inmates and the disposable face shields will be used by the DCS medical team to ensure their safety in managing possible cases of covid-19 in correctional centres.

Commissioner of Corrections Lt. Col. (Retired) Gary Rowe noted that the DCS took the initiative to produce their own mask and the inmates were ready and willing to assist. “DCS has implemented strong preventative measures in all correctional centres to protect the health and safety of inmates and staff. We took a similar approach as it relates to the wearing of masks. We did  not want to take from the community supply so we began making masks inhouse last month at some of our nations correctional centres.”

 The inmates explained that they are happy they are able to give back and to help Jamaica during the covid-19 crisis. “We are grateful for the opportunity to help in this time of crisis, Jamaica needs all hands-on deck and we are here to support in any way possible.” –Inmate