Stamford Coronavirus Updates: GoFundMe Launched For Hospital

STAMFORD, CT — A former member of the city's Board of Representatives has launched a GoFundMe campaign to purchase masks, respirators and other supplies for Stamford Hospital. The campaign was organized by Steven Kolenberg, a former representative of Stamford's 16th District who is currently studying in England.

According to the page's description, Kolenberg created the campaign to aid the hospital as its staff grapples with the new coronavirus. (To sign up for Stamford breaking news alerts and more, click here.)

"Our hospital needs a lot of support as [the virus] makes its way through our community," Kolenberg said in the description. "This fundraiser is complimenting ongoing fundraisers by the hospital and other groups trying to get their hands around this crisis."

According to Kolenberg, money raised through the fundraiser will go directly to Stamford Hospital to help purchase items such as masks, testing supplies, respirators and ventilators, as well as provide support services for caregivers and provide anything else the hospital currently needs.

As of Thursday afternoon, the page has raised $400 toward a $5,000 goal since its creation on March 16.

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COVID-19 is caused by a member of the coronavirus family that's a close cousin to the SARS and MERS viruses that have caused outbreaks in the past.

According to his Board of Representatives bio page, Kolenberg was elected to the board in 2013. He previously served as chair of the board's transportation committee, and was also a member of the education, appointments and steering, public safety & health committees.

"While I may be physically far from home, my heart is still very much with Stamford," Kolenbergsaid. "I'm going to try my best to help my home while this crisis plays out...$5,000 can go a long way in this crisis. Let's help our hospital now!"

To donate to Kolenberg's GoFundMe campaign, click here.

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