Heaven-sent help? Pittsfield church vestment maker pivots to PPE
Coutesy / CM Almy
In response to the pandemic, CM Almy has expanded from making church vestments, including the ones at the left and center, to also producing face masks.
Many Maine manufacturers are turning out new products in response to the coronavirus pandemic, but you might say Pittsfield-based CM Almy has a higher calling.
The 128-year-old manufacturer of clerical clothing, supplies and hardware for churches has pivoted to create protective face masks with cotton fabrics it had been using for products such as choir robes and cassocks.
The masks went on sale last week. Production of the religious gear has slowed because of the pandemic, but CM Almy is "gradually restoring" that capacity, according to the company website.
Founded in New York City by Clarence Mortimer Almy, the company moved to Pittsfield soon after World War II and has grown to become a supplier for churches of many faiths nationwide. CM Almy employs more than 100 and is run by brothers Michael and Stephen Fendler, fifth-generation descendants of Almy.
When the pandemic hit, the management team knew their traditional business would decline temporarily but decided to adapt.
“We think of ourselves as makers, first and foremost,” Michael Fendler said in a news release. “When state governments were telling people not to go to houses of worship and to begin wearing protective face masks, we immediately began working on designs, testing fabrics and sourcing elastic for masks.”
CM Almy has developed two styles of masks, one with an elastic ear loop and another with an elastic headband, offered in nine fabrics.
The company is also offering a “Buy One, Donate One” option to customers. Donated masks go to a Portland nonprofit, Partners for World Health, which collects medical supplies and equipment for distribution to communities and health care facilities in need. CM Almy has also donated to local nonprofit public health and safety organizations.
Like the other products, the masks are made in Pittsfield. Workers wear their own masks, as well as gloves, and maintain social distancing during production process.
“It is absolutely crucial we keep our workers safe during this time,” Fendler said. “The goal is to help flatten the curve, not to contribute to it.”
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