Gateway Community College (GCC) moved swiftly to rally around the victims of Hurricane Sandy, helping on three fronts. On November 5, GCC President Dr. Dorsey L. Kendrick announced that GCC had joined forces with the American Red Cross and the Connecticut Food Bank to collect food and funds. She also noted that proceeds from the Nutmeg Symphonic Pops Orchestra’s Fall Concert at GCC would benefit the Salvation Army’s relief efforts.

“As we have watched and listened to the horrible consequences of Hurricane Sandy on the lives of so many across our State and the entire East Coast, we are reminded of how fortunate we are to have so much untouched by these circumstances,” Dr. Kendrick said. “Many of you have heard me say that I believe we should give more than we get and leave more than we take. This is our moment; let’s do it.”

To further aid victims, GCC held a Red Cross blood drive just days after the storm struck, and after many other blood drives were cancelled because of storm damage and power outages. Thanks to a coordinated effort of administration, faculty, staff, maintenance and security, close to 100 people were able to donate.

“These cancelations were coming at a time when blood supplies were already at a dangerously low level. It made the need for a blood drive in this area even more essential,” said Janet Klinck of GCC’s Office of Student Activities and Leadership Programs. “We had 95 people come through the door which is amazing for a 'walk-in' type of blood drive. Eighty percent of those were first-time donors and approximately seventy-five percent were students. There was a significant need and Gateway responded!”

Those wishing to contribute to the American Red Cross/Connecticut Food Bank Drive can drop off food or money to the Dean of Development’s Office in S427. Checks can be made payable to the American Red Cross or the Connecticut Food Bank. If you have any questions, please call Mary Ellen Cody at ext. 52296.