In the wake of the unbelievable tragedy at the Sandy Hook School in Newton, CT. on Friday, Dec. 14, there is a tangible way for those of us far away to help the community.

The United Way of Western Connecticut (UWWC) and the Newton Savings Bank partnered soon after the shootings of students and staff at the school to create a fund that will directly help the Sandy Hook community, as well as others in the rest of Newton and surrounding areas impacted by the event.

To donate online, go to https://newtown.uwwesternct.org

Or you can send a check to:

Sandy Hook School Support Fund
c/o Newtown Savings Bank
39 Main Street, Newtown CT 06470

Here’s an excerpt from the UWWC announcement:

United Way of Western Connecticut (UWWC) extends our most sincere condolences and prayers to all those families affected by the devastating events in Newtown/Sandy Hook, Connecticut. While the eyes of the world may be on Newtown/Sandy Hook, to our staff, volunteers and contributors, Newtown is home. We will stand with the community and everyone affected directly and indirectly by this senseless event as we face the days and weeks ahead.

“We are committed to providing support and resources where and when they become identified and needed,” said United Way of Western Connecticut CEO Kim Morgan. “I have been in touch with United Ways across the country who have responded to similar tragedies within their communities in an effort to identify best practices in dealing with the short term and long term needs that our community will face. We will work directly with the community to determine the best ways to support the families of the victims.”

As people from our area and beyond respond to this heartbreaking tragedy, they are turning to United Way looking for ways to help.  In response, UWWC, in partnership with Newtown Savings Bank, has created the Sandy Hook School Support Fund that will provide support services to the families and community affected by this senseless tragedy.