While it’s well known that community-mindedness in the face of crisis is key, the behaviour of those ransacking supermarket shelves and continuing to go to the goddamn pub would suggest that it’s a virtue abandoned by many in the times it’s needed most. Fortunately, though, there’s a sizeable number of people that adhere to it, proving themselves saints among sinners rich in toilet paper.
One such saint is Pyer Moss creative director Kerby Jean-Raymond, who today announced that he would be turning his New York office into a donation centre to help those on the frontline of the fight against the coronavirus.
A reaction to the shortage of basic supplies available to medical professionals, the brand’s headquarters will distribute donated latex gloves and N95 masks to those that require them to carry out their much-needed jobs.
In an announcement made via Instagram, Kerby commented on the personal gravity of the situation, with particular reference to his sister, who was exposed to the virus in her line of work. “My sister was exposed and her elder patients’ safety has been compromised due to some professionals having to wear makeshift masks,” he wrote, going on to say in a separate post that he would also be donating $50,000 to assist minority and women-owned small creative businesses. “If you cannot make payroll, or cannot cover pressing costs to keep your business afloat, please reach and let us know how we can help.”
Along with the donations of ICU units by Italy’s largest houses and LVMH’s speedy manufacturing of a très chic hand sanitiser, Kerby’s gesture is the latest of hopefully many more instances of the fashion industry flexing its financial muscle to do some good.