Blackhawk Technical College continues to support area health care providers by either lending or donating resources to help fight the pandemic. The latest provision includes hospital beds from the Blackhawk nursing program for SSM Health facilities in both Janesville and Monroe. The beds will help SSM prepare and care for the anticipated increase in COVID-19 patients.

"We are all in this together and we will get through this together. Many health care providers on the front lines are our family, friends, and alumni. BTC is here for our community we will do everything we can to help them fight this pandemic," said Tracy Pierner, President of Blackhawk Technical College.

"We are so grateful to Blackhawk Technical College for their generous loan of additional beds, which will assist us in continuing to provide exceptional patient care throughout this challenging time. We are truly humbled by all the community support we continue to receive," said Jane Curran-Meuli, President of Monroe Clinic, a member of SSM Health.

Area health care providers have been seeking help from the community throughout this public health emergency. Blackhawk's Division of Health Sciences and Public Safety rallied to address the need of our community before the pandemic was declared. The Blackhawk team inventoried all personal protective equipment and started disseminating supplies to the front line.

In addition to the hospital beds, the college has also provided N-95 masks, nitrile gloves, thermometers, face shields, sanitizer, sanitizing wipes, and other PPE. These items have supported organizations like SSM, Monroe Clinic, Mercy Health, and Kelly House Nursing.

Jane Sybers, Executive Director of Monroe Clinic and Hospital Foundation, continued, "The Monroe Clinic and Hospital Foundation is so appreciative of the donations we receive each day, and especially so as we face these unique and uncertain times. This is such a wonderful example of our community's giving spirit making a powerful impact on local healthcare services. Thank you, Blackhawk Technical College for this incredible gift."

Individuals and organizations in the community can also help provide PPE and other resources to the frontlines. Contact the Rock County Emergency Operations Center at (608) 290-4589 or eoc.eoc@co.rock.wi.us with items you have available, including the quantity and the cost.

For health care providers, if you have a need that Blackhawk Technical College can assist with, contact our Campus Safety Office at CampusSafety@blackhawk.edu.

About Blackhawk Technical College

Blackhawk Technical College provides real-world experiences and hands-on training in a flexible, supportive environment. Our vision is to deliver innovative education that enriches our communities. By working with area school districts, community partnerships and local employers, we are responsive to needs of the region. BTC has four campus locations in Monroe, Milton, and Janesville, as well as class offerings in Brodhead and Beloit.