Newtown Savings Bank To Sponsor Blood Drive

For the second year in a row, Newtown Savings Bank will sponsor a blood drive at Trinity Church to benefit the Sandy Hook fire department and Newtown High School Blue and Gold.

The drive – scheduled for March 6, from 8:30 am to 6:45 pm – will see Newtown Savings Bank donate $5 to both the Sandy Hook Fire and Rescue Company and Newtown High School Blue and Gold for each person who donates blood.

Last year the event was successful, raising $700 for both groups. This year, Newtown Savings Bank President John Martocci hopes to get 200 donors. The money will be used by Blue and Gold to support their concession operation at Bruce Jenner stadium, and by the fire company to purchase an infrared camera.

Currently, only Newtown Hook & Ladder has an infrared camera, which is critical for helping fire fighters locate people during blazes. Sandy Hook Chief Bill Halstead says that if the fund-raising exceeds the cost of the camera, he will pass on the balance to another fire company to “pick up the ball,” which will hopefully result in each of Newtown’s five companies possessing an infrared camera.

The blood drive, conduced by the Red Cross, will also be supported by Ashlar of Newtown, which will provide sandwiches.

This year, Mr Martocci is challenging other Newtown business to support the drive and donate to the two causes. He says if any area business wants to get involved, contact him at Newtown Savings Bank.

To register for the drive, interested residents should call 800/GIVE-LIFE.