Masks for the Deaf community

The Corona pandemic has created a new normal in which masks are required at all times or risk a fine. This law was put into place with the positive intention of protecting people from spreading the virus to one another- with one major oversight “ mask-wearing makes it extremely hard and nearly impossible for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing to communicate!” This unique population relies heavily on lip-reading and facial expressions in order to communicate and comprehend situations. Need According to the World Health Organization, 466 million people worldwide are hard of hearing. The estimated Israeli deaf population comprises 7,000 deaf people and 500,000 hearing impaired (approximately 8% of the citizens of Israel) As a result, companies have created clear masks to make it easier for people with hearing issues to communicate while staying safe. These masks have a clear opening where one’s mouth is in order to be able to see lips when speaking. These masks are NOT reusable and costly! Sadly, there’s no financial support from the government and an increasing need for accessible masks to be distributed to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities across Israel. The most affected by not having these suitable masks are the youths and adolescents. They are already struggling to connect while trying to advance academically during these trying times. Partner with us to help ease their struggle and help them receive the masks they need to succeed! How can you help? We are inviting you to partner with us as we aim to provide 1000 special masks by Chanukah to Deaf youth AND health providers, government officials, bank clerks, post office workers etc - that will allow the Deaf and hearing impaired in Israel to communicate again. Hanukkah is the celebration of light during darkness. As such we want to provide these youths with masks they can use to help them get through this difficult period. Join us in providing them with masks this Hanukkah- help us spread the light!