Medline to distribute 50,000 reusable facemasks, hand sanitizer in Lake County

With increased COVID-19 cases reported in Lake County since June, access to personal protective equipment (PPE) is critical to slow the virus’ spread. Infection rates among African Americans and Latinos are alarming, with Latinos making up 44% of all cases in Lake County while making up only 22% of the county’s population.

As the largest private employer in Lake County and one of the world’s largest manufacturers and distributors of PPE, Medline is providing 50,000 reusable facemasks and hand sanitizer to its Waukegan and Lake County neighbors. The drive-through event will be held at the company’s distribution center located at 3926 Burwood Drive on Saturday, August 1st from 10 AM to Noon.

“Medline is concerned about the disproportionate impact COVID-19 is having on underserved communities,” says Andy Mills, President of Medline. “Our roots are long and deep in Lake County, and more than 2,000 of our team members live and work here. It’s extremely important to us that communities can get more PPE for their families.”

Joining Medline to help distribute the PPE to community members are the City of Waukegan, Waukegan Township, Lake County Board Member Angelo Kyle, the offices of State Representatives Daniel Didech, and Rita Mayfield, and State Senator Terry Link.

“We are excited about our partnership with Medline Industries in our endeavor to assist the residents of Lake County,” said Waukegan Township Supervisor/CEO Patricia Jones.

The Lake County Health Department reported that 9,500 people tested positive for COVID-19 at the end of June and as of July 28, the county reports 11,602 cases as the pandemic continues to infect people in Illinois. For every one White non-Hispanic person in Lake County who contracted COVID-19, four African Americans and nine Hispanic people contracted the virus according to the county’s data.

As part of its efforts, Medline works to address the disparities caused by the social determinants of health through volunteerism, product donations, and financial support. The company’s first Wash and Wear Community Mask Project event last month distributed 100,000 reusable facemasks to underserved communities in Chicago and a recent $1 million donation to organizations dedicated to improving racial equality. Supporting the communities where Medline employees live and work is a part of the company’s culture and is reflected by employees who volunteer to serve their communities both locally and globally.

To learn more about how Medline is shaping a healthier future by aligning action with values, please visit for more information: https://www.medline.com/pages/about-us/social-responsibility/.