UPDATE (Monday, July 7, 2025): This press release has been updated to clarify the co-hosts of the July 16 event, and the host location.

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On Wednesday, July 16, Hearts of Hope-Newtown will partner with Newtown-Strong Therapy Dogs to host a Paint with a Purpose event. Participants will paint inspirational ceramic hearts in a group setting, accompanied by personal messages of caring, compassion, and hope to be donated for charity.

Therapy dogs will be present for all to interact with. Heart-painting tables will also be open, along with a Touch-a-Truck station, where kids can receive small firefighter hats and have the opportunity to view and touch a fire truck. Firefighters will be on hand for the fun and family-friendly activity.

The hearts will be gifted to Pathways to Hope, a program from the Center for Family Justice that provides support for children ages 7-17 whose lives have been adversely impacted by the trauma of domestic or sexual violence. Program participants are from the communities of Bridgeport, Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Stratford, and Trumbull.

The second in Hearts of Hope’s three-part Summer Series, this event will take place from 6 to 8 pm at the Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue main station, 18-20 Riverside Road. The Touch-a-Truck segment will run from 6:30 to 7:30.

Cost is $10 per heart; donations to Hearts of Hope will also be welcomed. The event is suitable for all ages and all artistic abilities.

Hearts of Hope Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals, families, and communities find hope in the midst of grief. The organization was born from tragedy and emerged with a vow to serve those facing grief with the necessary tools and education to cultivate empowerment, resilience, healing, and growth. The first local chapter was founded in Newtown, following 12/14.

For more information, visit ourheartsofhope.org.