RED CROSS OFFERS FREE ASSISTANCE TO THOSE WITH COVID-19-RELATED DEATH IN FAMILY

Connecticut’s American Red Cross has set up an online resource hub to aid those grieving for people they have lost because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

To use the Virtual Family Assistance Center, go to redcross.org/ vFAC for “special virtual programs, information, referrals and services to support families in need,” according to a Wednesday news release from the Red Cross.

“Many families have experienced a disrupted bereavement and grief process due to restrictions related to COVID-19,” the release reads. “To help, the Red

Cross has set up a virtual team of specially trained mental health, spiritual care and health services volunteers” who provide support, such as during virtual memorial services. The volunteers also offer online classes focusing on “resilience” and “coping skills.”

The virtual center shares information and referrals “to state and local agencies as well as other community organizations including legal resources for estate, custody, immigration, or other issues.”

The service is free. It has links to psychological First Aid courses and includes the numbers to the Disaster Distress Helpline and the Suicide Prevention Lifeline, as well as other counseling options.

Groton Town

Candace D. Shaw, 37, of 30 Kamaha St. was charged Wednesday with driving under the influence, failure to drive in proper lane, improper turn/ stop signaling and driving under suspension.

New London

Amilia L. Lydick, 27, of 54 Flyers Drive, Norwich, was charged on May 7 with two counts of assault on a police officer and interfering with a police officer.

Cindalee Torres, 36, of 514 Ocean Ave. was charged on May 8 with third-degree assault.

Joel Valle-Lobo, 28, of 22 Clover St. was charged on