Yes, the MTA is giving away free masks
We know masks are key to stopping the spread of the coronavirus. A mask or face covering is also required at all times while you travel with us. So, we want to make sure you always have access to one when you need it.
Enter: the Mask Force.
Over the summer the federal government and the State of New York supplied the MTA with millions of free masks. Since July 2020, approximately 1,100 New Yorkers have been a part of Mask Force to give out over 800,000 masks.
Here's how Mask Force works
One day every month, our volunteers meet up in subway stations, pick up boxes of masks, partner up with another volunteer to hand out masks to folks who need one or could use an extra. They'll hand out masks on trains, on buses, or inside stations. And they look good doing it, wearing bright yellow “Stop the Spread. Wear a Mask” t-shirts or buttons or vests as a reminder to everyone that spots them to keep a mask on while riding.
Our volunteers include:
- Hundreds of MTA staff
- City agencies
- State agencies
- Elected officals
- Advocates
- Members of the public
We want you
Anyone over 18 years old and not working for a company that is currently doing or actively pursuing business with the MTA, is welcome to join the Mask Force. Shifts are about 2.5 hours long all across the city. If you'd like to join us this month (Friday, December 17), sign up here. If you'd like to join us but can't make it that day, share your information here and we'll get back to you with information about how to register (tip: Select "Subways" or "Buses", then "Request", click "Continue", and then "Interest in joining Mask Force!").
