To the Editor:

On March 25, 2015, Newtown Youth & Family Services (NYFS) held its 17th annual Independent Liv-ing Day (ILD) event. More than 40 volunteers were part of the community wide effort to assist seniors and disabled residents to continue to live safe and independently in their homes by assisting with basic home upkeep such as cleaning windows, dusting, raking, spreading mulch and much more.

Among the volunteers were Ben’s Lighthouse, Boy Scouts of America troop 57, Newtown High School Field Hockey, and several local family members. On behalf of NYFS, I just wanted to say thank you to those who volunteered and helped us make this day a success! It was great to see the community come together to help our seniors.

Many senior citizens in Newtown face increased costs of living without the ability to make additional money, and helping them with basic home upkeep means so much to them. Also, a special thanks to Dunkin Donuts on Queen Street and Bagel Delight for your continued and much appreciated support. You fueled our volunteers and kept them energized by donating coffee, donuts, and bagels! This annual event has become a much anticipated activity in Newtown and a proud tradition for NYFS. Not only does it help the senior community, but it promotes team building, family bonding, and community out-reach.

We are planning more events like this in the near future.

Sincerely,

Candice Bohr

Executive Director

Newtown Youth Family & Services

15 Berkshire Road, Sandy Hook May 13, 2015