Ralph Lauren to make medical masks amid coronavirus

Ralph Lauren is set to start making medical masks and gowns in a bid to help get much needed supplies to those battling the coronavirus pandemic.

The 80-year-old designer and his eponymously titled fashion house announced a shift in production on Thursday (26.03.20), as they will now begin making 250,000 masks and 25,000 isolation gowns in the US.

The news was announced by Ralph's charity foundation, the Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation.

Alongside the new protective equipment, Ralph also announced he would be donating a whopping $10 million through his foundation to help those most in need as the virus - which is also known as COVID-19 - spreads throughout the world.

In a statement, Ralph said: "At the heart of our company, there has always been a spirit of togetherness that inspires our creativity, our confidence and most importantly our support for one another.

"In the past weeks and months, that spirit has never wavered. We believe that no matter who you are or where you are from, we are all connected. That is why we are taking significant action to help our teams and communities through this crisis."

The donation will help provide financial grants for Ralph Lauren colleagues in need, as well as make a substantial contribution to the World Health Organisation's COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund.

According to Harper's Bazaar, the money will also help to support cancer patients through Ralph's existing Pink Pony Fund, as those battling cancer are one of the most at-risk groups when it comes to the virus because they already have a weakened immune system.

Ralph Lauren's charitable deed comes as other fashion brands are also joining the fight against coronavirus.

Luxury coat brand Canada Goose has begun making gowns that will be donated to healthcare workers, whilst GAP have confirmed their factories will start making protective gear, and LMVH - which owns the Louis Vuitton brand - announced the production of hand sanitiser in France.

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