Health

Dartmouth sophomores using connections, know-how to ‘fuel heroes’ at MGH

BOSTON — As the days of being on campus are over for now, two Dartmouth students are back in their hometowns and leading efforts to raise money for local hospitals.

“I think Boston is a very tight-knit city and we all are connected to someone who is a health care worker, really fighting for all of us,” said Jason Zavras, Dartmouth College sophomore.

His organization, Fuel Our Heroes, supports front line workers battling the pandemic. They’ve partnered with Massachusetts General Hospital. Money raised will go toward personal protective equipment and other necessities for health care workers like food, gas and, in some cases, accommodations.

"I think people realize that as much as it's really helping everyone, we do need to be really supportive of our front line workers who are continuing to work really hard as most of us are at home," explained Nate Pucci, Dartmouth College sophomore.

Jason Zavras, of Dover, and Nate Pucci, from Hopkinton, are sophomores. They’ve been networking with college students across the country following a three-step approach: email potential donors like friends and family, get the word out on social media and reach out to big name corporations.

“It’s really hard to ask people for money now and support when many people are struggling still so much. But people have been really generous and really supportive of us. I think a lot of people are really trying to help in any way they can,” said Pucci.

Nationwide, more than $100,000 has been raised for local hospitals.

“We are young, but also sort of on this fringe between being all into the world and being this younger generation that if we can sort of unite and sort of use our social media presence and connections, we can truly make a difference,” said Zavras.

Here’s how you can support Fuel Our Heroes.

Download the free Boston 25 News app for up-to-the-minute push alerts

>> Complete local and national coronavirus coverage here

RESOURCES:

- Massachusetts Coronavirus Information

- Boston Coronavirus Information

- Follow us on Facebook and Twitter | Watch Boston 25 NOW

- Download our free apps for your phone and smart TV