The Refuge for Nations has been producing PPE for hospital workers. | stock photo
The Refuge for Nations has been producing PPE for hospital workers. | stock photo
One small company working within the Macomb-Oakland University Incubator has taken on a big role, as it has switched from producing everyday clothing items to sewing personal protective equipment (PPE). The Macomb-OU Incubator promotes economic development throughout Southeast Michigan.
According to reporting by Patch Rochester-Rochester Hills, Refuge for Nations is a nonprofit working within the incubator, with a focus on providing employment and job skills to refugee women who live in the Detroit area. It also offers English as a Second Language (ESL) classes to its participants.
Prior to the COVID-19 crisis, most of what the women there produced was items such as women's clothing and baby needs.
Once the demand for masks and other protective equipment began to soar in the midst of the spread of the coronavirus, a new product line for the company emerged: protective gowns to by used at local medical facilities, such as the Detroit Medical Center.
The situation has been especially important for the women working at Refuge for Nations and has even offered added recognition for them within their families. As many of their husbands have lost employment in the midst of the crisis, the ability of these women to bring home even the sum of $350-$550 a week has proved crucial.
"When we started getting these orders, the women were so happy," said founder and CEO Cynthia Khan. "Their status in the family is elevated because they're generating income at a time when their husbands have been out of work because of the shutdown. They're just so thankful to be of use to their country and community during this difficult time."
Founded in 2017, Refuge for Nations joined the Macomb-OU Incubator in 2019.
"I think it's a testament to their value as a social enterprise," said John Swiatek, client strategist at the Incubator. "Not only are they providing jobs for refugees, a population that faces significant barriers to employment, but they're also helping doctors, nurses and many others stay safe during the pandemic."
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