Hearts of Hope-Newtown chapter is proudly partnering for the third year with American Legion Post 202 to create Hearts of Hope for men and women in the military.

Last year, the group sent 150 hearts to the US Air Force Aeromedical Evacuation Unit stationed at Maguire AFB, N.J. They deployed overseas in February and returned at the end of October. Every member of the crew took with them during their deployment a heart and a card from the artist.

This year Hearts of Hope-Newtown and American Legion Post 202 are supporting three Connecticut-based units: one Army and two Navy. Organizers are hoping to have a heart painted for everyone in these units, which means more than double the number of hearts created last year.

A public event has been planned for Wednesday, January 26, 6-8 pm, at Newtown Community Center, 8 Simpson Street.

All ages and artistic levels are welcome. Amateur artists are absolutely welcome to join the fun in decorating palm-sized ceramic hearts with simple messages and/or images of hope.

This is a family-friendly activity. Groups are also welcome. Scouts, church clubs, and social clubs are all invited to join.

There is no charge to participate in this Paint With A Purpose event thanks to some very generous donations.

Reservations are requested, however, so that enough supplies — paint brushes, paint, and hearts — are available for everyone. Contact Hearts of Hope-Newtown Vice President Ivy Pearson at ivy@ourheartsofhope.org with the number of people attending, and for additional information.