Maryland Department of Health Maryland Department of Health, Anne Arundel County Department of Health partner to distribute free masks at community holiday event for #MasksOnMaryland campaign

December 23, 2020

Media Contacts:

Deidre McCabe, Director, Office of Communications, 410-767-3536

Charles Gischlar, Deputy Director, Office of Communications, 410-767-6491

Maryland Department of Health, Anne Arundel County Department of Health partner to distribute free masks at community holiday event for #MasksOnMaryland campaign

Baltimore, MD – The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) announced today that it has partnered with the Anne Arundel County Department of Health to distribute free masks at the county’s Toy Drive and Food Giveaway. The event will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. today at the Meade Village Community basketball court located at 1710 Meade Village Circle Road in Severn, MD.

“Community cooperation and mask wearing, social distancing and hand washing are still some of our best defenses against COVID-19,” said Acting MDH Secretary Dennis R. Schrader. “Marylanders can take these critical steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and enjoy the holiday season responsibly.”

In addition to the mask distribution, the community event includes a food giveaway, free toys and clothing for children, COVID-19 prevention resources and rental assistance.

'During the holidays, we show the spirit of giving by providing food, clothing and other necessities,” said Anne Arundel County Health Officer Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman. “This year masks are a must. They help to protect our health and the health of others. That is why, with kindness and great hope as we move into the new year, we say 'Masks On, Maryland. Mask Up, Anne Arundel County.’”

MDH and its local partners have hosted #MasksOnMaryland distribution events across the state since July of this year. Over 60,000 free masks have been provided to Marylanders through these events. Local jurisdictions are encouraged to continue promoting the use of masks by hosting campaign events of their own.

For a comprehensive list of testing sites in Maryland, visit COVIDtest.maryland.gov. COVID-19 information and resources are available at covidLINK.maryland.gov.

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The Maryland Department of Health is dedicated to protecting and improving the health and safety of all Marylanders through disease prevention, access to care, quality management and community engagement.