SALISBURY — Rowan-Cabarrus Community College on Monday donated medical masks, gloves and other personal protective equipment from its health-related programs to local hospitals to help with shortages of supplies amid the coronavirus pandemic.

“The need is urgent in our local healthcare facilities, and we want to help in any way we possibly can,” said Rowan-Cabarrus Dean of Health and Education Wendy Barnhardt. “The dedicated healthcare workers right here in our community are struggling to find enough supplies, which may put themselves and their patients at risk.”

Rowan-Cabarrus staff delivered the supplies to Atrium Health and Novant Health facilities as well as the W.G. “Bill” Hefner VA Medical Center. The equipment is normally used during daily healthcare classes and labs. Classes at the college have transitioned online, with all in-person classes temporarily suspended.

“We have a wonderful relationship with the clinical facilities in our area, and our healthcare programs wanted to give back in this challenging time,” Barnhardt said. “We are grateful for their willingness to welcome our students and help them prepare for their careers.”

The COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak has resulted in nationwide shortages of personal protective equipment, including medical masks, gloves, gowns and more, leading some medical personnel to reuse equipment or use handmade items.

“Any time we are in a position to help, we want to help,” said college President Carol S. Spalding. “Doctors, nurses and other frontline workers are risking their own health for our community. We are all in this together.”