Church's mask giveaway procedure tweaked in Arlington Heights

Another 10,000 surgical masks are being given away at Lakewood Chapel in Arlington Heights, but church officials have changed the procedure a bit for safety reasons.

Pastor John Elleson said the church's giveaway of 10,000 masks was so successful over Easter weekend, it caused a traffic hazard on Palatine Road. "It's really been unreal," he said. "People are having a hard time getting masks."

Elleson said so many cars were lined up for the "drive-through" pickup that traffic was stopped in a long line in front of the church at 1307 E. Palatine Road. Now that another giveaway of 10,000 masks is underway, people are asked to park and walk into the church lobby, where they will be handed a mask. Lobby hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

He said drivers who are unable or unwilling to come inside the lobby can pull up to the door and a mask will be brought to them.

The church also delivered masks to local medical facilities and some law enforcement offices but is trying to keep the majority for civilians to pick up. Masks are limited to one person each. They are being handed out from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. while supplies last.

Elleson said he plans to have another 10,000 masks available starting Friday, April 24.