Ford to make 100 million face masks for communities nationwide

Dearborn, Michigan – Following completion of its 50,000th ventilator to help clinicians treat COVID-19 patients, Ford is pivoting to target production of 100 million masks through 2021 for communities across the U.S. with limited access to personal protective equipment. The company, currently manufacturing 2.5 million medical-grade masks a week for its employees and at-risk communities, is growing the number of mask-making machines by mid- to late-October to increase production and deliver on its goal.

Ford is working with Ford Motor Co. Fund, the company’s philanthropic arm, to identify donation recipients across the U.S. through a network of nonprofit and state and local partners. The company is focusing on military veterans, schools, food banks, and African American communities, among others.

“As the pandemic continues, so does the spirit, grit and dedication of our Ford team and UAW partners to step up and contribute to help our country,” said Ford President and CEO Jim Hackett. “Working together, we’re setting a goal of producing 100 million masks for families, children, individuals, and communities who need them most.”

UAW President Rory Gamble said, “At a time when the virus was new and equipment was sparse, UAW members volunteered to go into the plants and make personal protective equipment that helped save lives. I could not be prouder of their commitment and dedication. Our UAW Ford members on Project Apollo and throughout the union have added a new chapter in our long history of serving our nation in dire times of need.”

In early September, Ford Motor Co. Fund shipped 10 million face masks to the National Urban League, American Red Cross, Disabled American Veterans, and other local organizations to protect against COVID-19.

Ford, in partnership with the UAW, has produced more than 72 million pieces of personal protective equipment to meet the enormous demand. Altogether, this amounts to:

• More than 45 million face masks and 20 million face shields
• 50,000 patient ventilators
• More than 32,000 powered air-purifying respirators in collaboration with 3M
• 1.4 million washable isolation gowns