United Way Thanks Hawley Students

To the Editor:

On behalf of the United Way of Northern Fairfield County (UWNFC), please express our gratitude to the children of Hawley Elementary School for their generous contribution to the recent “Guy in the Sky” campaign. Also, please extend a major thank you to the lead teacher, Linda Codeghini. Without her initiative and leadership efforts in bringing this opportunity to the Hawley student council, it would not have occurred.

The $400 raised by the children in their “Nickels for Neil” thematic campaign allowed the entire school to embrace and participate in this worthy effort. While the number of nickels collected is significant, the effort put forth by the children in a short period of time to collect these nickels is more impressive. Examples follow of how $400 or approximately $8 a week for a year would help local children in need: $3 a week provides a routine dental checkup and fluoride treatment for four children, while $5 a week helps send a child to summer camp.

As a glimpse into the future, their parents and all Newtowners should be proud of the four student council leaders who presented the $400 contribution to Neil Hedley of radio station WRKI (I95). Claire Hebert, Hollister Olson, Julia Faxon, and Sinead Flanagan impressed Neil with their enthusiasm, excitement, and energy that made their radio appearance announcing the donation extremely successful.

Their combined efforts along with the entire Hawley student body demonstrated a willingness to perform good deeds and a compassion toward the local community that is greatly appreciated.

Thank you Hawley students !

Bob Merola

Campaign Executive

United Way of Northern Fairfield County

22 Ashford Lane, Newtown                                         January 8, 2007