UI, SCG and CNG Donate 6,900 Protective Masks To Yale-New Haven Health as Shortages Loom

ORANGE, Conn. — March 30, 2020 — United Illuminating, Southern Connecticut Gas and Connecticut Natural Gas today announced they are donating approximately 6,900 protective masks to Yale New Haven Health, amid a shortage of protective gear for medical personnel fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

The 3,700 surgical masks and 3,200 N95 respirators are being shipped today to a state receiving center. It’s part of a larger donation by parent company AVANGRID, Inc. of 31,000 protective masks in several states where its companies operate.

“As we implemented our crisis plans and took stock of inventory over the last few weeks, we determined that our companies had protective masks in storage that could be used by healthcare workers and other first responders,” said Tony Marone, President and CEO of Avangrid Networks. “Given the dire shortages of masks and other protective equipment faced by medical facilities and emergency responders across the nation, we have an opportunity and an obligation to help. We sincerely hope that by doing this we are able to help save lives.”

In addition to the donation of masks, UI has taken steps to reinforce the electric system that provides energy to hospitals and other critical facilities whose services are essential during the crisis. Company personnel have been inspecting the electrical circuits that serve those facilities and performing maintenance work to help prevent service disruptions.

Today’s announcement builds on AVANGRID’s pledge to support the communities that its companies serve. On Wednesday, AVANGRID and its independent, nonprofit charitable arm, the Avangrid Foundation, committed $2 million to support coronavirus relief and recovery. 

"We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the community at Yale New Haven Health and all our hospitals during this  unprecedented time," said Christopher O'Connor, EVP and chief operating officer, Yale New Haven Health System. "Companies like AVANGRID have really helped us in the battle to keep our staff and patients healthy and safe. We extend our deepest gratitude to each and every one."

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