The Haverhill City Council took the opportunity during Tuesday’s meeting to recognize local businesses that have adapted production facilities to help in the fight against COVID-19.
One of those is Southwick which has transformed from making Brooks Brothers clothing to creating face masks for front line workers during this crisis—a transition that Councilor Joseph J. Bevilacqua said provides two benefits.
“This is an opportunity for them to do two things. One of which, it brings the employees back which is critically important. But secondly, what they’re doing is that they are providing for an urgent need. They’re taking care of providing an element of personal protection that our front-line workers need desperately,” he said.
Another local company recognized for its work was Lightspeed Manufacturing. Dougan Sherwood, president of the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce, says the company’s owner, Rich Breault has recently made a similar transition.
“He’s actually transitioning his shop in the Ward Hill Area into an outfitter for surgical masks that will be distributed throughout the country,” Sherwood said.
Sherwood said the masks are scuba masks made by the Head Company which Lightspeed is retrofitting into much needed N-95 surgical masks.
One other company recognized at Tuesday’s meeting was Creatorpult Makerspace which received praise from councilors earlier.