BLOOD DRIVE TO BE THURSDAY IN OLD SAYBROOK

Old Saybrook — The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the So Chic storefront at the Old Saybrook Shopping Center, 655 Boston Post Road.

The Red Cross faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during the coronavirus outbreak.

No appointment is needed, but it is recommended, and donors need to be 17 years old. All donors must have proper identification and be in generally good health. To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-REDCROSS (800-733-2767) or visit www.redcrossblood.org. to loan to students after classes were moved online due to the coronavirus.

College spokeswoman Betty Baillargeon said Monday the school expects about 60 students to initially take advantage of the offer. She said the board would reconvene if there is an additional need for more laptops.

In a press release announcing the purchase, the college said its move to online learning, “has created significant issues for many of our most vulnerable students. Many students have relied entirely on the onsite computer labs at TRCC and do not have access to similar technology at home.”

Foundation board President Bill Stanley said that “With uncertainty facing many in our communities, the TRC Foundation is prepared to offer assistance to students and faculty in need immediately. We will support academic success by putting the necessary tools directly into the hands of our hardworking students. We believe in Three Rivers’ students and their ability to succeed, even in trying times.”

Board Vice President Chris Jewell added the board understands the hardship many students are facing at this time.

“Reliable access to technology is a luxury many of our students do not currently have and our hope is that this laptop purchase allows students to focus on building a better future for themselves, their families and our shared community through education.”

Students in need of a laptop may apply at https://www.trcc. commnet.edu/computer-loan/

Anyone wishing to contribute to the foundation fund can do so at threerivers.edu/giving.