NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) —Local agencies, businesses and now schools are stepping up to fight COVID-19.
The novel coronavirus has prompted national and local states of emergencies, with many being given "Safer at Home" or "Shelter at Home" orders.
Now, Tennessee State University is joining the front lines helping to fight the pandemic.
TSU is now using its 3D printing facility to help make medical supplies, including plastic shields, headbands and elastic bands.
“We are currently fabricating several of the headbands to donate to THEC,” says Dr. S. Keith Hargrove, dean of Engineering. “We have faculty, staff and students involved in making this product from four different sites at TSU. We hope to collectively support the state’s effort to mitigate and limit the spread of COVID-19.”
The college is also making hand sanitizer for campus police and seniors living at Schrader Acres assisted living facility near TSU.
“There is such a shortage because of the virus,” said Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the College of Agriculture. “The idea is to help people make their own sanitizer in case they can’t get it commercially. The elderly are among the high-risk groups and we want to do our part to help our neighbors, our community.”
TSU is also helping folks learn how to make their own.