HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — A new t-shirt initiative aims to spread a message of positivity and love at a time we're all practicing social distancing.
The Hearts Apart shirts are a collaboration between Operation CommuniTees and Apparel Lab, which are based in Huntsville.
When you buy a shirt, you automatically get another one for free, which will be for a loved one you'd like to give it to. You can also include a personalized note with it.
The Hearts Apart shirts were originally made to be given to folks in nursing homes, who aren't seeing as many guests right now due to COVID-19.
Jamie Russell, Founder of Operation CommuniTees, said now, anyone can purchase the shirts.
"Everyone needs some uplift and encouragement right now," said Russell.
Matt McLellan, Founder of Apparel Lab, who produced the shirts compared the tees to a half of a heart that you keep one side of and give the other half to someone else. They will send the shirt to your loved one. It's a positive message during a time when folks can't gather together as much.
"The social distancing is drawing up a barrier between loved ones and family members and those we may not have as frequent contact with," said McLellan. "Having that pair of getting a shirt for yourself and someone else. It's almost like a new age friendship bracelet."
The shirts are available in several colors and styles. To purchase a tee, visit Operation CommuniTees. When you buy one, you will also have a chance to donate to the United Way, who has been working hard amid the COVID-19 outbreak to serve folks Huntsville and Madison County. Click here for United Way's COVID-19 fund.
Operation CommuniTees was birthed out of a desire to help others in the community. Russell said it started in October of 2019 with the goal of working alongside and helping charities and do fundraising for them.