County Accepting Donations of Personal Protective Equipment from the Community

The County of San Luis Obispo is accepting donations of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) from the community. Donated PPE will supplement supplies the County is coordinating and distributing to local health care providers and first responders. See below for details regarding the types and criteria of PPE needed.

“We know a lot of people want to help as our community works together to combat this disease, and while we appreciate that some people want to make homemade masks and other protective equipment, we cannot accept homemade items,” said County Administrative Officer and Emergency Services Director Wade Horton. “We encourage anyone who wants to help to visit ReadySLO.org for information on how to volunteer.”

Types of PPE Accepted:

  • N95 masks (NIOSH-approved)
  • Surgical and procedure masks (FDA-approved)
  • Exam gloves (powder-free; nitrile or latex preferred)
  • Isolation gowns/coveralls
  • Hospital grade cleaning wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Eye protection
    • Face shields
    • Goggles
    • Safety glasses
  • Thermometers
    • Disposable
    • Non-contact/temporal scanner

Criteria for Donated PPE:

  • Sealed, original packaging
  • Not expired (with the exception of NIOSH-approved N95 masks in accordance with the Emergency Use Authorization)
  • No stains, odors, or tears

How to Donate PPE:

  1. Email or call the County’s PPE Supply Coordinator at [email protected] or call (805) 543-2444.
  2. County staff will contact you to confirm the PPE meets criteria for donation.
  3. County staff will then provide you with details about when and where to drop-off the PPE.
    Please do not drop off any donated items at County sites or at health care facilities unless that facility specifically directed you to do so.

For updates on COVID-19 in SLO County: Visit ReadySLO.org or call the recorded Public Health Information Line at (805) 788-2903. A staffed phone assistance center at (805) 543-2444 is available seven (7) days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for questions related to COVID-19. To report a business violating the Shelter at Home order, call (805) 788-2222.