In the hope of attracting more local input, an online survey to help the Distribution Committee of the Sandy Hook School Support Fund assess ongoing needs of those affected by 12/14 has been extended to February 13. The fund is among those administered by The Newtown-Sandy Hook Community Foundation.

Foundation members include Chairman Chris McDonnell, Vice Chair Joeline Wruck, Gavin Arneth, Dr Robert Bazuro, Jennifer Clark, Kevin Cragin, the Reverend Rob Morris, Scott Ruszczyk, Addie Sandler, Bob Schmidt, and Connie Sullivan.

According to foundation Executive Director Jennifer D. Barahona, LCSW, this input is necessary in order to make well informed funding recommendations.

“We conducted a similar survey this time last year and the results of that were used by our committee to fund several initiatives including becoming the primary funder in the community of out-of-pocket costs for mental health and wellness services associated with the tragedy,” Ms Barahona said.

Funds were additionally used to support training for all staff in the school district on youth mental health first aid and to sponsor community events and workshops on trauma and grief with those most impacted by the tragedy and the community at large, the letter states.

Residents taking the survey should expect to spend about ten minutes online. The survey is completely voluntary and anonymous, with a goal to reach as many people as possible.

Click here to take the survey. For more detail on funding to date visit nshcf.org.