By Liz Nolan, Contributing Writer
Northborough – Robert E. Melican Middle School sixth grade student Niko Conway is using some of her downtime while social distancing at home during the COVID-19 crisis to make fabric face masks.
To date, Niko and her mom Naoko, have made 10 surgical caps and 65 face masks using fabric remnants they had at home for friends and organizations, including staff members working at various hospitals and medical facilities.
Niko recently teamed up with Tom Lowe, owner of Lowe’s Variety & Meat Market located at 255 West Main Street, to provide face masks for customers who may need one.
“Prevention is really important,” said Niko. “Everybody needs a mask.”
The current plan is to make 25-50 masks per week until materials run out. Each mask is accompanied by a homemade card with a short message and lots of colors. Although there is no charge for the masks, a contribution to the Northborough Food Pantry is encouraged.
“During the quarantine, many are alone,” said Niko. “The message in the card is to let someone know that they are thought of and for them to stay safe.”
Niko’s parents are both front line workers; her mother is a direct care giver and her father works for the Department of Corrections.
Niko is also a Girl Scout with Northborough Troop 30652, where she has learned how important community service projects are and the positive impact they can bring to people.
