NYPD to receive influx of personal protective equipment

NYPD police officers are seen in Times Square.(Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images)

The NYPD is set to receive an influx of personal protective equipment to help keep officers safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

The New York City Police Foundation has purchased 150,000 masks, 150,000 gloves and 150,000 packets of hand sanitizer that will be given to the department, the NYPD announced on Tuesday.

"This equipment will help keep our officers physically safe. But beyond that, it sends them a clear message - that their unwavering commitment to protecting people is deeply appreciated," NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said. "Amid all the challenges of this crisis, I'm struck by all the ways it has brought out the best in New Yorkers. On behalf of the entire NYPD family and the city we serve, thank you for the generous gift to the men and women in uniform."

2 MORE NYPD EMPLOYEES DIE OF CORONAVIRUS

MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE

The NYPD's Quartermaster Section, which monitors the department's inventory and requests, will distribute the equipment.

SONY corporation has also donated masks.

The NYPD is seeking donations to help in the continued fight against the pandemic.

Three officers have lost their lives to the highly contagious disease. Through Monday, 824 uniformed members and 106 civilian members of the department had tested positive for the coronavirus.  Almost 5,200 uniformed members were out sick on Monday. That is more than 14% of the uniformed workforce.

For others who would like to contribute to the Foundation please go to https://www.nycpolicefoundation.org/donate/.

---------

Get breaking news alerts in the FOX5NY News app. It's FREE!

Download for iOS or Android

---------