Jewett City Savings Bank has donated a battery-powered automated external defibrillator to the Griswold Public Schools.

According to Kevin C. Merchant, president and CEO, the donation was made to support the school system’s fundraising campaign to acquire a minimum of four of the life-saving devices, to ensure their availability for the school population.

The need for the defibrillators was brought to light by the tragic death of Larry Pontbriant, a Norwich Free Academy student, due to sudden cardiac arrest.
 
“We encourage everyone to join in this defibrillator fundraising effort to help save a life by donating to this worthy cause,” said Merchant.

The portable defibrillators cost approximately $2,000 each, and donations toward the purchase of additional units for the schools can be made by contacting Athletic Director Glenn LaBossiere at 376-7636.

Jewett City Savings Bank has a long tradition of involvement with the local schools, including providing academic and community service scholarships and class marshal awards and supporting activities such as Project Safe Graduation, Drama Department productions and the Booster Club.

Pictured from left to right: Yvonne Palasky, Chair, Griswold High School Parent Advisory Council; Glenn LaBossiere, Athletic Director, Griswold High School and AED fundraiser co-coordinator; Kevin Merchant, President and CEO, Jewett City Savings Bank; Dr. Mark Frizzell, Principal, Griswold High School; and Sharon DeRico, Griswold High School Health Aide and AED fundraiser co-coordinator.