Free disposable masks for low-income individuals from Feb 28

Low-income individuals are eligible to collect a box of AIR+ disposable masks for free from Feb 28 to Mar 13. 

The distribution by Temasek Foundation comes under its StayPrepared initiative. Those who hold either a blue or orange Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) card or a Public Assistance/Special Grant card can redeem the disposable masks at over 160 selected supermarkets and malls islandwide, said Temasek Foundation in a media release on Feb 23. 

Each box contains 50 disposable masks. 

The participating supermarkets and malls include NTUC FairPrice, Cold Storage and CapitaLand malls.

The three-ply AIR+ medical grade surgical masks filter up to 99.9 per cent of bacteria and over 98 per cent of particles.

As the masks are made from hypoallergenic materials, they are gentle on the skin, and are 40 per cent more breathable than most other high-quality surgical masks in the market.

Individuals can find their nearest collection points by entering their postal code on the StayPrepared website and bring their valid cards down to collect the masks.

Families members and friends’ are allowed to collect the masks on the individuals’ behalf by bringing their respective cards for collection, but must be authorised to do so.

Temasek Foundation said that even though masks are no longer in short supply, the foundation and the Ministry of Trade & Industry (MTI) recognised the need to help lower-income families and individuals to have access to better masks for protection as Singapore faces the Omicron wave.

Low-income individuals without a CHAS card who still wish to collect the masks may apply for one here.