To the Editor:

Families United in Newtown (FUN), a community recreational program for those in our area with special needs children, teens, and adults, just completed our first Coffee Challenge with BD Provisions of Newtown. Over 30 cars participated in a “Pick Up Parade” on December 6 — lining up to get their tasty, locally roasted java while supporting this Newtown National Honor Society fundraiser.

The High School Cohort A and Cohort B students vied to be the top selling team — and the winner was… Cohort A. All together, these 40 student volunteers and four adult volunteers sold 400 pounds of coffee!

Many thanks to Ingersoll Automotive of Danbury for their donation to our student and adult top sellers. Anne Marie Carlson, a senior at NHS sold 49 pounds of coffee, and Monsie Hobbs — an adult volunteer — sold 20 pounds. Second runner-up was Ryann Heim, selling 21 pounds, and there was a tie for third place — Annie Connors and Maddie McGoldrick both selling 11 pounds.

Many thanks to Dawn Lipke, who always gathers donations for our cause, to Big Y of Newtown for donating 100 #12 Patriots reuseable bags, and to BD Provisions for roasting all those beans, promoting a win-win fundraiser, and then donating raffle prizes as well.

Owner John Boccuzzi, Sr, along with NHS volunteer John Boccuzzi, Jr, worked hours to support our mission — we are so grateful for your kindness. Many thanks for additional donations of raffle items from FUN board leader Jay Thomas. And thanks to Queen Street Gifts for graciously letting us borrow Santa for the event — he added much holiday cheer for the FUN kids in our drive through parade.

Thank you Newtown Public Schools and advisor Jeff Tolson, and Newtown United Methodist Church for the use of the church facility. And gratitude to everyone who supported our event by purchasing, selling, and distributing coffee and/or making financial donations for our mission.

FUN is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that strives to provide individuals with special needs and their families social opportunities in a caring environment. 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

Walnut Tree Hill Road, Sandy Hook December 18, 2020