DETROIT -- Ilitch Companies this week launched what it is calling a protective mask production initiative, aimed at manufacturing 60,000 masks a day for employees, customers, fans and guests, as well as for donation to community groups and organizations in need.

The initiative included setting up a manufacturing facility specifically for mask production, staffed and supported by a group of Ilitch employees working full- or part-time -- including Tigers employees -- while following strict guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health organizations as well as state and local authorities.

“To design, set up and activate a production facility like what we have here in less than two months is truly impressive,” said Eric Brasseur, who oversees the facility. “This was made possible by the collective efforts and adaptability of employees across our family of companies. They have taken this from an important idea to an impactful reality.”

Most Ilitch employees, including the Tigers, have been home since mid-March. Producing masks in-house should help with re-opening efforts. Still, anyone uncomfortable returning will be allowed to stay home until full staffing begins, according to a Tigers spokesperson.