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Siblings start 'MaskUP St. Pete' nonprofit to help people stay safe and stylish during pandemic

16-year-olds Ella & Jaeden sell, donate masks
Posted at 1:39 AM, Jul 13, 2020
and last updated 2020-07-14 17:02:42-04

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Siblings Ella Holland and Jaeden Geffon don't understand the hullabaloo.

Masks are essential during the pandemic. They keep us safe. They keep our loved ones safe.

So why are some people so resistant to them?

"I really don't understand why people keep refusing to wear them," says Ella. "It's not a political matter. It's about safety."

For these remarkable teenagers, masks are also a super-fun way to show off your style.

With help from family and friends, the 16-year-olds launched MaskUP St. Pete, a colorful nonprofit selling and donating masks.

The 100% cotton masks are handmade and comfy. Designs range from sports teams to gorgeous vintage. Prices start at around $10.

For every mask they sell, they donate one to someone in need.

You can also simply buy and donate a mask for a good cause.

The teens made sure each mask has a playful, youthful verve — perfect for when kids go back to school.

For Jaeden, this act of service is also very much linked to his Jewish faith.

"Being Jewish, growing up in a Jewish household, we learned tikkun olam, and that literally stands for helping out the community," Jaeden says.

Working for the greater good is nothing new to these siblings. Both traveled to Washington D.C. to lobby Congress for women's rights and gun control.

To do a little shopping on MaskUp St. Pete, click here.