Stonington -- The Eugene Atwood Fund has announced that it has awarded $10,000 each to Ella T. Grasso Technical High School and Norwich Technical High School to purchase tools and equipment for student use in the classroom.

The award, presented in celebration of the fund's 105th anniversary, highlighted its interest-free loan program for New London County college-bound students and the addition of a new loan program for students going to trade school.

 “The idea to focus attention on the area of technology and trades came from within the spirit of our mission statement which is to help industrious hardworking people build careers,” said the fund's Managing Trustee Erica Lindberg Gourd.

Wes Dawley, a member of the fund's trade and technology committee, added, “with over thirty years’ experience in the construction industry, I have seen the downturn in young people getting into the trades and hope that our new trade loan and award programs will engage those considering a future in the trades.”

Grasso Tech in Groton recently opened a new building with state-of-the-art classrooms that include the latest technology and industry-standard equipment with training in 12 technologies.

“We truly appreciate the $10,000 Award from the Eugene Atwood Fund for our trades; each trade will benefit from these funds, said Grasso Principal Patricia Feeney. "The items that we will now be able to purchase will better enhance the overall shop experience for all students; therefore will also allow for greater concentration and skill development that will make our students highly marketable. These items will continue to help our students to be successful in the study of their career choice.”

Norwich Tech offers instruction in 12 career paths. 

“We are so grateful for this wonderful opportunity. Through the very generous award from the Eugene Atwood Fund, all Norwich Tech students will benefit from learning and practicing their skills using current industry equipment," said Principal Patricia D. King.

Fund Administrator Stacey Haskell said the fund is excited to provide this funding to the schools for tools and equipment with the need for experienced skilled workers and tradespeople being in such high demand.

The fund is accepting applications for its interest-free loan programs and seeking nominations from principals for its award programs through Feb. 28. More information and application can be found at www.eugeneatwoodfund.org.