Designer Kerby Jean-Raymond of Pyer Moss has pledged to combat the damage that the coronavirus pandemic is currently inflicting on his community.
Via an Instagram announcement on his personal page, the founder detailed Your Friends In New York, an initiative to help alleviate financial and supply issues for independent businesses and medical professionals.
For minority and women-owned small creative businesses, the New York-based designer promises to set aside $50,000.
In addition to helping cover payrolls and business costs, Jean-Raymond decided to convert his Pyer Moss office in NYC into a donation center. There, he requests drop-offs of basic medical supplies.
“I’ve been getting an influx of messages from medical professionals on the front lines, who have been treating this pandemic, about their shortage of basic supplies,” he wrote. “Many of them, including my sister, have not had enough n95 masks and some are without gloves.”
“My sister was exposed to COVID-19 and her elder patients’ safety has been compromised due to some professionals having to wear makeshift masks,” he added.
Due to these dire circumstances, he is donating $5,000 to purchase these adequate items. He also insists that those sending packages of new N95 masks and latex gloves must mail them.
Jean-Raymond is yet another celebrity on a list of stars lending funds and entertainment during this global crisis. COVID-19 cases are steadily increasing and due to social distancing, causing crushing stress.
For both medical professionals and creatives in need, contact wanttohelp@yourfriendsin.nyc.
As the designer writes, his generosity is an “imperfect solution,” but in these uncertain times, it’s a great place to start.
