First Selectman Pat Llodra issued a release March 8 reminding residents that March 31 marks the end of a significant program and the beginning of a new organization.

According to the release, Newtown's Recovery & Resiliency (R&R) initiative, funded by the Department of Justice for 18 months, is coming to a close.

"The R&R team of six hardworking, caring, and compassionate professionals led all of us on a journey of unparalleled community outreach and support," Mrs Llodra said in the release. "Together, we learned a lot about the trajectory of response to trauma; about how the brain and body interact as partners in mental health; about how grief impacts individuals and families in so many different ways; about the importance of personal support for those who are trying to navigate the challenges of insurance and treatment options; and more."

Although funding for the R&R program has ended, Mrs Llodra has recognized that recovery work and a need for support continues.

"We are committed to an ongoing program to promote and support mental well-being for our community and specifically for those most impacted by the tragedy at Sandy Hook School," the first selectman said. "Grant funding from Praxair and from the Newtown Sandy Hook Community Foundation are providing partial support for two positions: director of the social work/mental health program; and a care navigator."

Mrs Llodra said that these two positions will be filled soon, with persons ready to continue the work of the R&R team. Still located at 28 Trades Lane, and available by phone at 203-270-4612, the first selectman said that the new team will transition with current staff over the final days in March, and will be fully operational with no gaps in service to the community.

"On behalf of all of us in Newtown who have so benefited these past 18 months under the care of our Recovery & Resiliency team, we say a special thank you," she said. "And to those joining us to continue the work, we say welcome. We appreciate where we have been and now look forward to this next version of our recovery efforts."