As wildfires rage across the western United States, community-led efforts are emerging to address the urgent need for clean air. Groups like the Mendo Clean Air Club and Mask Bloc are stepping up to distribute essential protective equipment, including masks and air purifiers, to vulnerable populations affected by hazardous air quality.
The Growing Threat of Wildfire Smoke
In Mendocino County, California, residents are grappling with the harsh realities of wildfire smoke as fires such as the Feliz and Woodside blazes consume over 1,000 acres. Miquette Thompson, a local organiser, reflects on the alarming changes in air quality. “It’s become not unusual,” she states, acknowledging the increasing frequency of smoky skies in her rural area. The health implications are severe, particularly for seniors and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. A recent study from the University of California highlights a 10% rise in asthma-related hospitalisations on days when smoke thickens the air.
Thompson, who has been active in her community since the onset of the pandemic, noticed a lack of guidance from local health authorities regarding effective masks for smoke protection. Realising that N95 masks offer far superior filtration compared to cloth options, she mobilised her community through the Mendo Clean Air Club. This grassroots organisation is part of a broader network of over 40 clean air clubs worldwide, all dedicated to combating air pollution.
Mobilising Resources for Communities in Need
The Mendo Clean Air Club, founded by community members like Thompson, serves as a model for effective local action. Their efforts have included partnerships with local businesses to distribute masks and air purifiers. Similarly, Mask Bloc Los Angeles made headlines by distributing over 300,000 masks in just two weeks during the catastrophic fires of January 2025.
Emily Dupree, who launched the first Clean Air Club in Chicago, encapsulates the urgency of the situation. “Covid and climate change are two major pillars of collective denial,” she remarks. The lending libraries established by these clubs have become vital resources, offering air purifiers and masks to those in need, free from the red tape that often hinders governmental responses.
Dupree’s initiative gained traction when Chicago faced its own air quality crisis due to wildfire smoke. After realising that their stock of air purifiers was underutilised, they began actively promoting the availability of these devices, leading to swift bookings by local residents seeking safety from the smoke.
The Role of Mutual Aid in Public Health
The work of organisations like Mask Bloc and Clean Air Clubs extends beyond mere distribution of equipment; they are fostering a culture of mutual aid that is crucial in times of crisis. Shannon Durkin, an organiser with Mask Bloc Delaware, reflects on her personal struggles with health and social isolation. After the Covid emergency declaration in 2023, she felt disconnected from public life, facing discrimination for wearing her respirator.
In response, Durkin and her husband established Mask Bloc Delaware, focusing on distributing KN95 masks amidst the ongoing threat of wildfire smoke. They have partnered with local groups to ensure that PPE reaches those most in need, especially during smoke events. “People were surprisingly enthusiastic about receiving it,” she notes, highlighting a general unawareness about the health risks posed by poor air quality.
Navigating Public Hesitance and Building Awareness
While the current administration continues to downplay the significance of masks and the ongoing pandemic, the role of community organisers has never been more critical. Thompson addresses the scepticism surrounding Covid-19 by emphasising the direct impact on health and livelihoods in her community. “We can’t afford to get sick or to get long Covid,” she explains, noting that many residents rely on their physical health for work.
As awareness of Clean Air Clubs grows, Dupree has even created resources for those wishing to start similar initiatives. The collective efforts of these mutual aid groups provide a beacon of hope amidst the chaos of climate change and public health crises.
“A lot of people feel overwhelmed by the state of the world,” Dupree adds. “But focusing on one problem often leads to solutions for others.” This spirit of resilience and proactive engagement is crucial as communities navigate the dual crises of Covid and climate change.
Why it Matters
The rise of grassroots organisations tackling air quality issues highlights a significant shift in public health responses to environmental crises. As wildfires become more frequent and intense, the need for community-led initiatives grows increasingly urgent. These efforts not only provide immediate relief but also foster a sense of solidarity and empower residents to take charge of their health. In an era marked by uncertainty, the actions of these grassroots groups illustrate the power of community resilience in the face of adversity.
