To the Editor:

The COVID-19 virus has changed the world, including Newtown, overnight. Social distancing and remaining in our homes continues to affect the entire community. Many of us risk becoming isolated — seniors, single-parent households, and grandparents to name a few. The lack of social contact will impact us in different ways. As never before, we may need to depend on a phone call or e-mail from family, friends, and neighbors. Indeed, sometimes just a friendly phone call can make a day seem shorter and brighten our lives.

The Newtown Lions care. While we, too, are keeping our physical distance from friends and neighbors, that’s not stopping us from networking with each other and members of our fellow townsfolk. That’s why we are launching the “Lions Care” outreach program. “When there’s a need, there’s a Lion” is our motto. We know there are many residents who could use a “How Ya Doing” call and we want to hear from you. Our Lions will be making phone calls to those individuals who would like to hear a cheerful voice on the other end. It’s a chance for anyone who wishes to talk about their day and week with a Lion. We see this initiative as a great opportunity to grow better acquainted with our neighbors by engaging in a friendly check-in with them.

If you would like a call from a Newtown Lion, or know someone who might benefit from our reaching out, please send me an e-mail at brucewalczak@me.com. Please include the name of the person we should call and their phone number. We’ll have a Lion reach out.

Be safe!

Bruce Walczak

Past President, Newtown Lions Club

12 Glover Avenue, Newtown March 25, 2020