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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network

@chicagocarn.bsky.social
34 followers 15 following 78 posts

We are a collaborative project run by Air Support Project, Public Health Action Network, SOS and Windy City ToolBank to increase free and low-cost access to clean air tools, resources, and PPE in Chicago! More active at www.instagram.com/chicagocarn/

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Reposted by Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network
Public Health Action Network @publichealthaction.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
We were delighted to co-host this Zoom discussion with @airsupportproject.bsky.social about the new @chicagocarn.bsky.social project. Getting clean-air materials like N95+ masks and air purifiers into the hands of people who need them at no cost to them will improve public health overall.
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
Meet the team working to build the Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network! We are a collaborative project focused on increasing access to free air purifiers, N95 masks, and more in Chicago! Our coalition brings together experience from public health, clean air, disaster relief, tech, and more.
Team introduction page for Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network (Chi-CARN), featuring six team-member photographs.
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
We were on this month's Public Health Action Network (publichealthaction.bsky.social) community call to do a deep dive on Chi-CARN! We talked about how we are bringing this project to life, how we originally came together, and our long-term goals for the project. www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJP8...
youtube.com
PHAN and ASP present: Chi-CARN, the Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network
YouTube video by Public Health Action Network
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
We are having a community call this Thursday, August 13th, at 11 AM CT, with @publichealthaction.bsky.social and Windy City ToolBank, and we would love for you to attend and learn more about our program! We are building a clean air lending library in Chicago. Register at tinyurl.com/chicagocarn
Alt text: Instagram post promoting CHI-CARN’s August 13 Zoom event, “Meet CHI-CARN,” with a registration link, a note that a free Zoom account is required and the event will be recorded, and the time listed as 11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET.
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 06/08/2026
We are raising $5,000 to support the launch of our clean air tool lending program, which offers low-cost lending of air purifiers and other specialty clean air equipment to nonprofit and mission-driven organizations, as well as FREE high-quality masks. Donate at tinyurl.com/AirOutChicago!
1: Clean Air Resilience Network logo on the top left with words to the right that say “Donate to help us build a lending library of air purifiers, speciality clean air equipment and free K95/N95 masks for Chicago” An image of Chicago skyline hazy with a blue overlay. Text reads “$760 Raised/ $5000 Goal” Status bar that shows 15%. On the bottom it says “tinyurl.com/airoutchicago”
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Reposted by Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network
Public Health Action Network @publichealthaction.bsky.social · 06/08/2026
Live chat about the #Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network (Chi-CARN) on IG tonight: 5pm PT / 7pm CT / 8PM ET. Chi-CARN is a collaboration with PHAN, @airsupportproject.bsky.social, SOS, and Windy City Toolbank, dedicated to bringing free masks and other clean-air materials to Chicago-area residents.
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 05/08/2026
Just a note that this is a separate event from the Instagram Live that we will be doing tomorrow!
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 05/08/2026
Want to learn more about Chi-CARN and the people running it? Join us for an Instagram Live chat with @keithmuise80.bsky.social of @publichealthaction.bsky.social, Jessica Pohto of Windy City ToolBank, and Sarah and Melissa of @airsupportproject.bsky.social Thursday August 6th at 7p CT/ 8p ET!
Promotional graphic for the Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network (Chi-CARN) on a light blue background. At the top is the Chi-CARN logo featuring a heart-shaped Chicago skyline and clouds beside the text “Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network.” Large black text reads, “Meet the Nonprofits of Chi-CARN.” A calendar icon displays the date “6 AUG,” and a red oval says “Tomorrow.” A white banner announces “CHI-CARN LIVE” with “Instagram Live @chicagocarn,” an Instagram icon, and the time “7p CT | 8p ET.” A red banner at the bottom reads: “For More Information: chicagocarn.org | hello@chicagocarn.org.”
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 29/07/2026
Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network “Chi-CARN” is launching through grassroots support and in-kind donations. Air Out Chicago is a fundraiser to help us build our #cleanair equipment lending program in Chicago. Help us reach our goal of $5,000: tinyurl.com/AirOutChicago
Promotional collage graphic. 3 images. One image shows different colors of K95s, another shows people making DIY air cleaner and the third is a smoky hazy image of Chicago.  On top the Clean Air Resilience Network logo. Words “Air Out Chicago is a fundraiser to strengthen the capacity of Chi-CARN’s air quality equipment lending program.” In another box below words “Your support will help us add speciality equipment to our lending program inventory including free supplies of N95 /K95 masks and DIY air cleaner materials as well as borrowable air purifiers and portable air quality monitors. “ Underneath that another box “Each donation protects a breath.” To donate: tinyurl.com/AirOutChicago
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 27/07/2026
Clean Air Resilience Network (Chi-CARN) is here to build community resilience for wildfire smoke events and other air quality emergencies. No one should breathe unhealthy air and our hearts go out to the organizations and people impacted by smoke. #IndoorAirQuality #WildfireSmoke #MutualAid
Alt text: Informational graphic with logo of Clean Air Resilience Network. Email in the top right corner hello@chicagocarn.org and website chicagocarn.org. A photo of a Chicago residential street fades into a smoky haze, illustrating poor air quality. Below image is a gray box and inside the words say “Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network (Chi-CARN) creates free and low-cost access to clean indoor air resources in Chicago. We offer a shared stockpile of free N95 masks, and low-cost borrowing of air purifiers and other clean air equipment available through the Windy City ToolBank’s lending program. Any nonprofit or mission-based organization in the Chicagoland area can access equipment for our lending program.” The text explains that Chi-CARN provides free and low-cost access to clean indoor air resources in Chicago, including free N95 masks and low-cost borrowing of clean air equipment through Windy City ToolBank. Two lists highlight available resources: Borrow equipment—air quality monitors, air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and Far-UVC devices; Free supplies—high-quality masks, MERV-13 air filters, DIY air cleaner materials, and COVID, flu, and RSV tests
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 23/07/2026
We are both grateful and honored to receive our first in-kind donation of high quality children’s masks from WellBefore! 1,500 extra small kids’ KN95 masks, 1,500 small kids’ KN95 masks, and 90 regular kids KN95 masks. They will be used to help kids with conditions like asthma breathe easier.
A white thank-you graphic recognizing an in-kind donation from WellBefore. At the top is the WellBefore logo in blue with a red heart containing a white cross. Large navy text reads, “THANK YOU,” followed by italicized navy text, “for your generous in-kind donation.” Red text below states, “The high quality children’s masks you sent will be distributed for free to nonprofits and mission based organizations throughout Chicago.” At the bottom is the Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network logo, featuring a heart-shaped Chicago skyline with clouds above and the organization’s name in blue and red.
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 20/07/2026
If you are stuck in the smoke, now is a good time to make your own air cleaner, also known as a Corsi-Rosenthal Box. DIY air purifiers (made using a box fan and 4 MERV-13 filters) out-perform many air purifiers on the market. MERV-13 HVAC filters are widely available at local hardware stores.
Infographic from the Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network titled “Make Your Own DIY Air Cleaner.” It explains how to build a DIY air purifier (Corsi-Rosenthal box) using a 20-inch box fan, four MERV 13 filters, duct tape, cardboard, and scissors or a box cutter. The guide is organized into five illustrated steps: (1) gather materials; (2) make a cardboard fan shroud by cutting a 20-inch square with a 14-inch circular opening and taping it to the fan; (3) arrange four filters into a square with airflow arrows pointing inward, add a cardboard base, and place the fan on top blowing upward; (4) tape and seal all seams to prevent air leaks; and (5) place the finished purifier in an open area 1–3 feet from surrounding objects, ideally elevated off the floor and away from open windows, and run it on the highest comfortable fan speed. The infographic notes that, when assembled correctly, the DIY purifier removes particles such as pollen, dust, wildfire smoke, viruses, and pet dander, and can outperform many commercial air purifiers. The bottom of the graphic includes the website ChicagoCARN.org, the email hello@chicagocarn.org, and a CC BY-ND 4.0 license.
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 18/07/2026
The #wildfiresmoke blanketing #Chicago caught many people off-guard, without the tools to protect themselves. Wildfire smoke is hazardous for everyone - inhaling it has lingering health effects for days to weeks after exposure, and can even lead to hospitalization for people with chronic conditions.
Infographic titled “Create Your Clean Air Space” from the Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network. The graphic provides step-by-step guidance for creating a cleaner indoor space during wildfire smoke or poor air quality events. It recommends choosing a room large enough for everyone in the household, including pets, and preferably with an attached bathroom. It advises closing windows and doors, sealing cracks with caulk or weatherstripping, and limiting use of exhaust fans or range hoods. HVAC systems should be set to the “On” fan setting to continuously recirculate air, and filters should be upgraded to MERV 13 or the highest compatible rating. A highlighted section explains that when the Air Quality Index (AQI) is high, everyone benefits from a clean air space because wildfire smoke can infiltrate indoors. Additional recommendations include running a properly sized portable air cleaner or DIY air cleaner continuously, planning indoor activities such as remote work, online school, movies, games, and reading, avoiding smoking, candles, and cooking, and wearing a well-fitting N95 respirator if smoke enters the room or when going outside. The infographic concludes by recommending reopening windows and ventilating the home once outdoor air quality returns to safe AQI levels. The Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network logo, website (ChicagoCARN.org), email address (hello@chicagocarn.org), and a CC BY-ND 4.0 license are displayed at the bottom.
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Reposted by Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network
Clarity Movement @joinclarity.bsky.social · 18/07/2026
Our #AirQuality network with @DOEE_DC is back in the news - this time not because of #fireworks but #WildfireSmoke. CEO & Co-Founder @david_clarity joined @nbcwashington to share what Canadian #wildfire #smoke #AirPollution means for #DC & how sensors help residents stay safe.
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 17/07/2026
Today, Chicago set a record for the worst AQI in its history - a staggering 597! Communities across Chicago hit have been hit with with tornadoes, flooding, and extreme heat this summer, and many people lack access to the tools they need to protect themselves. #chicago #cleanair #iaq
July 16, 2026 
Chicago experienced its worst air pollution on record

Today, wildfire smoke created the worst AQI in Chicago’s history - a record-breaking 597 AQI.  As these events become more common, expanding access to protective tools is more important than ever.
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Reposted by Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network
Block Club Chicago @blockclubchi.bsky.social · 17/07/2026
Chicago’s air quality is among the worst in the world as wildfire smoke hits. blockclubchi.co/4pHdrpf
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 01/07/2026
The heat dome is here for another couple days. Here are some practical ways to stay safe and comfortable during a summer heat wave #NonProfitWork #NonProfitChicago #IndoorAirQuality #HeatWaves
A graphic showing the Chicago skyline with the Willis Tower centered under a blue sky. A dark gradient overlays the lower half of the image with large white text reading, “Extreme heat warning extended to Friday, July 3.” The Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network logo appears in the bottom right corner, and the phrase “We care about clean air” is displayed in small white text near the bottom left.
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
Hey Chicago, extreme heat warnings are in effect until Wednesday night. Here are some tips to keep yourself and loved ones cool during this heat wave. #Chicago #ChicagoWeather #Nonprofit #NonprofitWork #HeatWave #MutualAid
Graphic announcing an Extreme Heat Warning for Chicago. The background shows a bright orange and yellow sky with clouds, overlaid with a red silhouette of the Chicago skyline. A banner at the top reads, “From noon Monday June 29 to 10 p.m. Wednesday July 1.” Large blue text states, “Extreme Heat Warning.” The Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network logo appears in the upper right. A red banner across the bottom says, “Protect yourself during extreme heat,” followed by three safety tips with icons: Drink water frequently, Stay indoors during peak heat hours, and Check on vulnerable people.
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 25/06/2026
The Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network (C-CARN) is a coalition creating low-to-no-cost access to PPE, air purifiers, and other clean air-related supplies in Chicago! Read more about our project on the @airsupportproject.bsky.social blog airsupportproject.com/introducing-... #cleanair #mutualaid
airsupportproject.com
Introducing the Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network - AIR SUPPORT PROJECT
Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network or C-CARN’s goal is to transform how communities prepare for and respond to air quality emergencies from an individualized burden to a sustainable, collective, and...
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 25/06/2026
Illinois has had a record number of tornadoes this year - more than any other state in the country! We are working to provide free masks and low-cost equipment rentals to protect people from the oft-overlooked air quality issues arising from these storms and their aftermath.
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Reposted by Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network
Block Club Chicago @blockclubchi.bsky.social · 11/06/2026
Fallen trees and power lines were reported throughout the Chicago area after strong wind gusts tore through the region Wednesday afternoon — with more inclement weather looming. blockclubchi.co/4ehbhqK
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Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network @chicagocarn.bsky.social · 09/06/2026
The Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network (C-CARN) is a coalition creating free and low-cost access to PPE, air purifiers, and other #cleanair -related supplies in #Chicago! We are run by @airsupportproject.bsky.social in partnership with The Windy City ToolBank and @publichealthaction.bsky.social
CHICAGO CLEAN AIR RESILIENCE NETWORK

DON’T LET BAD AIR GET IN THE WAY OF YOUR MISSION

Who we are
The Chicago Clean Air Resilience Network (C-CARN) is a coalition focused on creating free and low-cost access to PPE, air purifiers, and other clean air-related supplies in Chicago. 

Our goal is to give community organizations the tools they need to combat air quality emergencies through the Windy City ToolBank's tool lending program.

Our equipment
Durable Hardware
High-CADR Air Purifiers
Portable Air Quality Sensors (PM2.5, CO2, and Radon)
PortaCount Fit Testing Machines
Far UVC Lights
Mold Remediation Tools (Air Scrubbers, Dehumidifiers, and Mold Foggers)
Vacuums with HEPA filters

Consumables
N95 and KN95 respirators
Rapid Tests (COVID, influenza, RSV)
Fit Testing Kits
Mold and Radon Tests 

We are currently accepting pre-orders in preparation for wildfire season this summer. Sign up via windycitytoolbank.org/member-application Mention “C-CARN” in the "How did you hear about the Toolbank" field.

JOIN THE NETWORK
1100 W. Cermak Road, Suite 127, Chicago, IL 60608
cleanairresiliencenetwork.org/
chicagocarn@gmail.com
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