With vaccines in wide distribution and COVID-19 infections dropping, the Seneca Nation is donating hand sanitizer to school districts near its Cattaraugus and Allegany territories, recognizing that a continued focus on simple public health protocols is the best defense against future outbreaks.

The Nation recently delivered one pallet each of 3 oz. containers of Suave hand sanitizer – 4,704 containers per pallet – to the Gowanda, Silver Creek, Lake Shore and Salamanca school districts.

“Though it appears we are thankfully nearing the end of the pandemic, it’s critical that we don’t let down our guard and continue to take all the necessary steps to protect our communities against COVID-19 and other illnesses,” said Seneca Nation President Matthew Pagels. “Keeping your hands clean is a simple yet highly effective way to safeguard your own health and the health of others, and the Nation is pleased to be able to contribute these important resources to help our students, their classmates, friends and teachers all stay safe.”

This donation comes on the heels of the Nation’s partnering with the districts to provide COVID-19 vaccines to eligible students and staff, again recognizing that safeguarding public health is a collective effort that requires collaboration across governments and communities.