Since 1969, Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers Co-Op, in Anchorage, AK, has served the public by providing a variety of handmade Alaskan native goods and qiviut produced by the 250 local women who live in the surrounding villages. To keep their staff and visitors safe in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, their team has made the following changes.

COVID-19 Updates at Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers Co-Op

1. Social Distancing

To adhere to national social distancing guidelines, they have limited staff to no more than two people in the building at one time and are maintaining a strict, six-foot distance at all times. Additionally, they have temporarily closed the shop to the public, making allowances only for members to drop off knitting and for mail delivery.

2. Sanitation

To prevent the spread of COVID-19, the staff has undertaken additional sanitation efforts, thoroughly cleaning the store each day and in between member visits using sanitation procedures and cleansers that are proven effective against coronaviruses by the CDC.

3. Discounts & Special Offers 

To encourage sales for their dedicated customers, they are offering free shipping and handling on all purchases, in addition to discounted rates. The cap kit, which contains one - two oz skein of 100% qiviut bulky-spun yarn and five patterns, has been discounted from $90.00 to $80.00. The Nelson Island pattern stole and scarf has been discounted by $25.00 through the end of April. 

4. Reduced Qiviut Purchases

They will, unfortunately, have to limit the amount of qiviut they purchase from the villages this year. To make it fair, they will be working out a system to benefit those who have sold to them in the past. They encourage past qiviut sellers to look for a letter containing additional information soon.

5. Adjusted Hours & Orders

They have changed their hours to Monday-Friday from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm for office staff only. They will be closed on Saturday and Sunday. They encourage customers to leave a message regarding orders and to please be patient as they will get back with everyone ASAP. Remember, orders can be placed online, too, by visiting qiviut.com.

Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers Co-Op will continue to follow all guidelines and recommendations set forth by the CDC and WHO to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 and to keep their staff and customers safe. They advise their valued customers to practice social distancing, wash their hands often, and stay safe during these unprecedented times. For additional questions, contact their staff at (907) 272-9225. For updates and information on COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization online today.