As Canada continues to run low on supplies of hand sanitizer, an unlikely hero has stepped in to help. The country’s biggest brewer has committed to producing thousands of bottles of hand sanitizer, in response to COVID-19 in Canada. Even better, all of these new supplies will be distributed to those who need it the most, including frontline workers.

In an announcement on Sunday, Labatt Brewing Company confirmed they would be switching from beer to sanitizer, as they promised to make 50,000 bottles for those in need.

In their statement, Labatt explained they were eager to join “the national effort to combat the spread of COVID-19.” 

The company stated that all bottles will go to food banks, frontline workers and partners in the restaurant and bar industry, “who are playing a critical role in serving take-out meals in a time of need.”

“This is a national crisis like we haven’t seen in our lifetimes and we feel an obligation to do everything we can to help,” Labatt said in a news release.

The production will follow the World Health Organization’s hand sanitizer guidelines, and the supplies will be distributed on a local basis.

Several locations across the country will be participating in the effort, including Labatt facilities in Ontario, Alberta, Quebec, and B.C.

This comes as supplies of essentials like hand sanitizer and toilet paper have been running low across Canada.

As concerned citizens continue to stockpile, emptying stores of stock, Ottawa Public Health has urged Canadians not to purchase more than they need.

In particular, handwash, soap and disinfectants have been in short supply for months, with locations like Shoppers Drug Mart selling out as early as January.

In a similar effort, several Calgary breweries have also committed to manufacturing hand sanitizer for both residents and local health institutions. 

All of the breweries and distilleries that are currently making handwash will also continue to produce alcohol at select locations.

As of Monday, there were 1430 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Canada. 20 people have died.

More information and regular updates can be found on the Government of Canada’s dedicated website.