To the Editor:

Families United in Newtown (FUN), a program for those with special needs children, teens, and adults ran a “Chili and Chat” drive-by event just in time for Valentine’s Day! One hundred and twelve meals were made for our “Pick up Parade” participants on February 13th — lining up to get their tasty homemade chili dinners.

Many thanks to Butcher’s Best for their generous food and supplies donation to make and serve the chili; Phinney’s supplied beautiful red peppers and onions; and BD Provisions provided wonderful fresh roasted coffee. Big Y of Newtown donated #12 Patriots reusable bags that helped with our food distribution without paper waste.

Thanks go to cooking teams Bill and Linda Soter, Kevin Curry, Steve Bennett, Beth Meszaros, Dawn Ford, Anita and Peter Lucsky, and Rachel, Matt (the Chili King), and Amy Steinbroner. We are grateful for the many volunteers that helped with the drive by fun despite the freezing cold weather – Jay Thomas, Maura Granville, and National Honor Society and student volunteers. BD Provision owner John Boccuzzi, Sr, along with NHS volunteer John Boccuzzi, Jr, brewed up delicious java to offer families driving through on such a “Chilly” day. Thank you Newtown Public Schools and advisor Jeff Tolson, and Newtown United Methodist Church for the use of the church facility. We offer sincere gratitude to everyone who supported our event.

It takes a village to support fundraisers, and with the pandemic, we know the challenges facing everyone to donate are many.

On behalf of our participating children, teens, adults, and their families, our volunteer mentors and our Board of Directors, I send my heartfelt thanks to Newtown and surrounding communities for supporting our goal. Your backing of FUN means the world to us and the individuals and families we serve.

Duane and Linda Jones, Founders of FUN

In memory of their son, Tyler

16 Walnut Tree Hill Road, Sandy Hook February 26, 2021