Malvern Bancorp Inc. placed an order earlier this year with a national medical equipment distributor for enough face masks to equip its branch and administrative employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. More than two months later, it still had not received the face masks.

With the health and safety of its employees and customers in mind, Malvern Bancorp decided to buy face masks for all its employees from That’s SEW Cool, a Berwyn-based company owned and operated by local entrepreneur Kathy Stoeri.

Stoeri, a seamstress and embroiderer, founded her company to embroider designs for the uniforms of local high school cheer and dance teams. When the COVID-19 crisis began, Stoeri decided to expand her services to make face masks, which she donated to local hospitals and fire companies. She also sells her masks to local companies.

“Malvern Bancorp and Malvern Bank wanted to keep our employees and customers safe during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Anthony C. Weagley, President and CEO. “Unfortunately, the current crisis has created a shortage of many much-needed supplies – especially face masks. We were so gratified to learn of That’s SEW Cool’s work, and we’re happy to support a local business in the cause of helping our employees and customers stay safe.”

In addition to local entrepreneurs, such as That’s SEW Cool, that are making face masks for first responders, companies, and individuals, Weagley also pointed out that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is providing guidance for consumers on how to make their own masks – and how to use them.

Weagley emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses – especially during a crisis like COVID-19.

“As a community bank, ‘buying local’ is in Malvern Bank’s DNA,” he said. “Buying local keeps more of our community’s money in the local economy, supports and creates local jobs, and helps nurture our entire community.”

Click here to learn more about Malvern Bancorp.

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