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When the COVID-19 pandemic first took hold of our area, we saw many people step up and offer their time and resources to assist those that need it the most.

We saw countless food giveaways to the community as well as healthcare workers and many people came together to make cloth masks due in part to the mask shortage at the time.

There is no shortage of generosity within our community and that is what makes Chambers County special.

That generosity continued Tuesday when Kevin Chen, owner of Zen House donated 1,200 masks to the Valley Police Department.

He wanted to give them to the police officers to thank them for the good work that they do. We agree, they do a fantastic job of keeping our community safe.

“We are very thankful for this, and we will put them to good use,” said Chief Tommy Weldon.

“Our officers will be using them in their interactions with the public and on their standard calls,” said Major Mike Reynolds.

Anyone who comes to the police department to discuss a matter with an officer will be able to use them as well.

“I just hope we don’t have to use all of them,” said Chief Weldon.

We share Chief Weldon’s sentiments, but for the time being, masks are here to stay.

Hopefully this will all be over very soon, so do your part and wear your mask.