To the Editor:

It is our pleasure to update you and your readers on the next stage of our fundraising for the Newtown Lions Playground Project — our ambitious initiative to upgrade playgrounds in Dickinson and Treadwell parks, adding equipment for “inclusive play” that can be enjoyed by children with physical restrictions, their families, and friends.

Since the project kickoff last May, and despite the constraints to fundraising activities imposed by COVID-19, the generosity of the people of Newtown has already raised close to $20,000. However, there is still a long way to go.

More than $60,000 is needed for equipment and installation at Dickinson Park alone.

With this in mind, we are excited to announce “Stay at Home Treasure Hunt 2,” a second opportunity for families in Newtown to hunt for loose change at home and deliver it for “Contactless Collection” consistent with social distancing and other regulations placed upon us in these unusual times of COVID-19.

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3.

1. Search out all the loose change in your house/car/sofa.

2. Collect the change in a (ziplock) plastic bag.

3. Bring your bags to the convenient drop-off point for contactless collection.

The Newtown Lions and our amazing Leos will be waiting for your generous donations on the grass at the front of Newtown Middle School between 10 am and 2 pm on Saturday, April 24. We look forward to receiving your valuable treasure! Gold coins (chocolate) will be given to all children who bring a bag of booty.

On a foggy Saturday in December, “Stay at Home Treasure Hunt 1” realized over $1,100. We believe our second installment can be even more successful.

Donations may also be made via the Newtown Lions webpage at newtownlions.org or you can send a check to the Newtown Lions Club, PO Box 218, Newtown CT 06470.

Your generosity (donations of $5, $10, or more) will make this project happen!

Sincerely,

Walt Schweikert

19 Cobblestone Lane, Newtown April 2, 2021