To the Editor:

Many of your readers will remember Letters to the Editor [March 24, 2020, “Wanted: A Playground For All”; and May 21, 2020, “Swinging Into Action”] and an article from earlier this year [June 19, 2020, “Lions Club Hopes to Enhance Playground Experiences For More Children”] concerning our ambitious initiative to upgrade the playgrounds in Dickinson and Treadwell parks and make them more inclusive. We want to add equipment that can be enjoyed together by children in wheelchairs and their families and friends.

Since our Playground Project kick-off in May, and despite the constraints to fund raising activities imposed by COVID-19, we are very pleased to report that through the generosity of the people of Newtown, we have already raised a significant amount.

However, there is still a long way to go. More than $60,000 is needed for equipment and installation at Dickinson Park. Treadwell, being older, will require much more.

With this in mind, we are excited to announce a fun activity for all families in Newtown, which we believe will help us achieve our fundraising targets in a way that is consistent with social distancing and the other regulations placed upon us in these unusual times of coronavirus: a “Stay at Home Treasure Hunt.”

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 [plastic bag that zips shut].

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

The Newtown Lions will be waiting for your generous donations at the lower level entrance of the Newtown Congregational Church [14 West Street], between 10 am and 2 pm on Saturday, December 12. We look forward to receiving your valuable treasure! Gold coins (chocolate) will be given to all children who bring a bag of booty.

Donations may also be made via the Newtown Lions web page at www.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, Newtown Lions Club

19 Cobblestone Lane, Newtown December 4, 2020