U.S. Tobacco Cooperative Inc. (USTC) has donated excess N95 respirator masks to the UNC Healthcare System in Chapel Hill, NC, to aid in the protection of healthcare workers on the front line of the fight against the Coronavirus/COVID-19.

In the wake of the current Coronavirus pandemic, the US healthcare system needs resources for patients and doctors. The N95 respirator masks and other personal protective equipment are among the most requested items. Designed to block smaller particles, the N95 masks are thicker and fit more tightly around the face than a surgical mask.

The UNC Healthcare System is grateful for these respirator masks, which will be used in the care of critically ill COVID-19 patients.

“Every mask we are able to donate means a healthcare worker will be less afraid to go home to their families,” said Oscar J. House, CEO and President of USTC.