Seattle launches marketplace to connect businesses with local face mask producers

The City of Seattle launched an online marketplace Tuesday to connect organizations that need face coverings with local producers manufacturing them.

Seattle Protects is a project of the city’s economic development and public health officials to promote locally-produced face coverings. A number of companies in the area have pivoted to manufacturing face masks over the past few months.

Public health officials are urging Seattle-area residents to wear face coverings in public settings where social distancing may not be possible.

Companies manufacturing masks can apply to participate in the program if they agree to sell the coverings for between $5-$7 each. The City of Seattle is also providing more than 45,000 free face coverings to organizations that help under-resourced communities.