Goggles for Docs is an international charity collecting goggles for health care workers to wear on the front lines during the coronavirus outbreak.
Regional coordinator for Goggles for Docs Anna Atwell explained to MTN that there have already been thousands of donations around the world.
"At this time personal protective equipment which doctors and nurses use to protect themselves is very scarce," said Atwell. "So, ski goggles and skate goggles have become an effective way for doctors and nurses to protect themselves."
She said that while medical-grade protective wear is the best, goggles are a great alternative with the shortage of personal protective equipment.
"It's a good substitute for this time in crisis. It's definitely not the same, but it is kind of an effective substitute," said Atwell.
Atwell explained that ski resorts around the state have been excited to be a part of this charity.
Nick Polumbus, director of marketing and sales with Whitefish Mountain Resort said that the resort donated a brand new box of goggles to this effort.
"It's a good feeling to know that strangely this industry has resources that can be of use to the health care professionals," he said. "So, of course we want to help and do this. And it is unique."
At this time, Atwell says no hospitals in Montana have requested goggles yet. However, she's excited the state has collected over 150 goggles for when the goggles are needed.
"It's not just the goggle going to the particular medical professional, and it's not just them you are protecting," she said. "It's their family and their friends. It's anyone else they come into contact with."
She explained that goggles in any condition will work and added that those who want to donate should sterilize them before dropping them off.
If people can't sterilize the goggles, hospitals will sterilize them before they're distributed to nurses and doctors.
For more information on where you can drop off goggles please visit their website.
