CVS, Stop & Shop, Rite Aid to distribute free N95 masks

UNDATED (WJAR) — The federal government is handing out hundreds of millions of N95 masks for free.

The masks will come from the Strategic National Stockpile, which has more than 750 million on hand. It will be the largest distribution of free masks by the federal government since the start of the global pandemic.

There will be a limit of three N95 masks per person.

According to the White House, 400 million will be made available at locations that have partnered with the federal government's COVID-19 vaccination campaign.

So far, CVS Pharmacy, Stop & Shop and Rite Aid have announced they will participate.

"Through our continued participation in the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, we'll be offering access free N95 masks at CVS Pharmacy locations in the coming weeks as we receive supply from the Federal Government. Our work to distribute high-quality masks as part of this program is an extension of our commitment to providing equitable access to the tools necessary to combat COVID-19, including testing, vaccines, and authorized therapies," according to a CVS Pharmacy spokesperson.

"Stop & Shop will be a proud participant in this program, and we anticipate having N95 masks available at all our Rhode Island store locations. Please note, however, that quantities will be very limited and will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The CDC anticipates the masks will be available later this month," a spokesperson for the chain grocery store said.

In a statement, Rite Aid said, "As a partner of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, we are proud to help make these free high-quality masks easily accessible and convenient for our customers, providing them with another tool in the continued fight against COVID-19. With the federal government beginning shipments on a rolling basis this week, we anticipate the free N95 masks will be available in our stores starting the end of next week. Our teams are quickly working on our process for customers to pick up the masks to ensure distribution throughout our communities."

Previously, these masks were in short supply and prioritized for health care workers.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said properly fitted N95 and KN95 masks provide the most protection.

When asked who should be wearing N95 masks, Rhode Island Department of Health Medical Director Dr. James McDonald said, "Really, everyone because what you really want to do is wear a high-quality mask. When you wear a mask like this, you put it on and get a nice seal."

"The one-two punch is high-quality masks and a booster vaccine. You do that and you’re free to roam about the state and enjoy yourself," he added.

According to the White House, N95 masks will begin shipping this week and distribution should start late next week.

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