Many of you know that I live in Connecticut. You also know about the horror that descended on our neighbors in Newtown. Their community will be mourning and recovering for some time and there has been an enormous outpouring of support from around the world in this time of darkness. Millie and I added our sentiments by crafting some cards to send to families, the school and first responders. (How does a 14-month-old craft cards? She tears up tissue paper; then mom does the Mod Podging.)
But as time has passed, it has become clear that more support is needed. The officers who responded to the call and who processed the scene have undergone a great trauma. Some have not been able to return to work and they are using up their sick time and vacation days. A lawyer for the police department said that by the third week in January, these officers will run out of time to take off. (You can read the CT Post story here.)
A movement is afoot to change legislation so that the trauma experienced by these officers — and other state employees such as teachers and medical examiners — will be covered by workers’ compensation. But the General Assembly doesn’t convene until Jan. 9. And even if/when these cases are covered, it means that these officers will retain their medical benefits but will only receive a percentage of their pay. (You can read The Hartford Courant story here.)
Hearing about this, the founder of the yoga studio I attend got in touch with the liaison for the Newtown Police Department and asked what she could do. The liaison said gift cards to Walmart would be very useful for these officers and their families, helping them get the food and other items they need. So Linda launched the Adopt-a-Cop fund and yesterday I made this flyer in support of the program.
I know this tragedy has been the impetus for many charity scams. I assure you that this is a legitimate and tangible way to help those who most need it right now.
If you are interested in helping, feel free to contact Linda. You can also read about it on her studio’s website here. To download a copy for print to post and share go here until Jan. 9.
Here’s to a brighter 2013 for all.
Liz Gramling 
This is great Liz! Anna shared a link on facebook which I shared with my friends. Hope you get a lot of donations!!
How can we make sure these get distributed to the Forst Responders first? My cousins husband was first of three officers in the school. I know only 12 actually saw the massacre firsthand. I just want them to be recognized first even though they are still all at a loss.
Thanks for following us, KassandreReilly. I will pass your question/concern onto Linda, since she is running this program. I’m sorry your family has been touched directly by this tragedy and hope the outpouring of support will be a great help to them and the other officers.