Benedictine University donates 600 masks to Edward Hospital, Catholic Charities

Benedictine University in Lisle has donated 600 personal protective masks to Edward-Elmhurst essential workers and Catholic Charities staff and clients.

With the leadership of Benedictine's Office of University Development, the masks support not only front-line workers and those in need, but also raised money for Benedictine University's Mission Fund.

Charles Gregory, president of Benedictine University, presented the masks to both Edward Hospital and Catholic Charities representatives on June 11.

"As president of Benedictine University, I have seen the many challenges our community faces during this unprecedented time," Gregory said.

"I am very proud of our alumni, faculty, staff and donors for being Benedictine, staying true to our mission and making a difference to those in the communities we serve."

Dr. Sanjeeb Khatua, Chief Physician Executive at Edward-Elmhurst Health, was on hand to receive the donation.

"Edward Hospital is extremely grateful to Benedictine University for this mask donation. These masks will help keep staff safe at this critical time," Dr. Khatua said.

Glenn Van Cura, executive director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet, said there is a great need for face masks right now, and Catholic Charities has already begun to distribute the masks to help ensure the safety of members of the community.

"We are so grateful for Benedictine University and their alumni for choosing Catholic Charities for this generous donation," Van Cura said.

"The agency greatly appreciates its long-standing partnership with Benedictine University and looks forward to many more opportunities of collaboration."

Benedictine's "Buy a Mask, Donate a Mask" campaign began May 4. The campaign encouraged all Benedictine University community members to purchase a custom-branded face covering for themselves, which would be matched with a mask being donated to needy community members.

All proceeds raised went to support students through the university's Mission Fund.

The Benedictine University Mission Fund provides emergency assistance to students who experience economic hardship during their time at Benedictine and need additional aid to complete their education. To-date, the campaign has raised more than $25,000.

Benedictine University masks are still available for $35. These custom cloth masks are three-ply, with two layers of cotton and one layer of polyester. They also have adjustable straps and are machine washable.

For the $35, they will send you one BenU school spirit cloth face mask; donate one face mask to a Lisle or Mesa, Arizona, health care organization or to Catholic Charities; and apply $25 on your behalf to the Benedictine University Mission Fund.

To order a mask, visit www.ben.edu.

For information about this initiative, contact Nicki Anderson, nanderson@ben.edu.