HENRICO COUNTY, Va. -- The demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) continues to grow at medical facilities across the country, and in Henrico County, one auto shop is working to supply equipment to the professionals that are most in need.
Bimmer Rescuein Henrico County prides itself on quality car work for German cars.
“Mostly BMW’s, Audi’s, Volkswagen, Mini Coopers, that’s sort of our forte," said Patrick McHugh, who owns Bimmer Rescue.
Now they’re using those skills to help first responders on the front lines of COVID-19.
"So I found a local organization that was 3D printing these frames, but needed someone to help assemble them and distribute them," McHugh said.
McHugh said each face mask will have a shield that will protect health professionals when working with COVID-19 patients.
Technicians at the shop have been splitting time between working on cars and putting face-masks together.
"So we made 200 of these masks today and we have 3D printers around Richmond printing 24/7," McHugh said.
McHugh said they plan on continuing production for as long as there is a demand.
“We’re doing what we can to try and help our community get through this pandemic," McHugh said.
The auto shop is also offering first responders, medical staff, nursing home workers and free oil services and free state inspections, as well as non-contact concierge pick up and drop off with loaner if needed.
McHugh said if anyone knows first responders or health professionals who need PPE to contact them at virginianeedsppe@gmail.com or patrick@bimmerrescue.com. They are also in need of volunteers.
