Posted on January 26, 2024
Newtown, CT – Dozens of people came out to the Newtown Community Center Wednesday January 24, 2024, to support Hearts of Hope Newtown and their ‘Paint with a Purpose’ event for active-duty military members. State Senator Tony Hwang (R-28) and State Representatives Mitch Bolinsky (R-106) and Martin Foncello (R-107) celebrate and thank the organization for their continued dedication to service men and women across the country. This year, the decorated hearts will be sent to two United States Navy Submarines based in Groton, Connecticut, and a Connecticut Army National Guard Aviation Unit.
“As a member of the American Legion, I’m so glad we’re able to partner with organizations like Hearts of Hope to send a caring reminder to service men and women that their courage and sacrifices are not forgotten,” said Rep. Foncello. “Events like this foster kindness and send hope to our Troops.”
“This is such a fun and easy way to bring a Valentine’s Day smile to the faces of our deployed Connecticut service members, many serving far from home, and send a little Newtown hug to remind them that we appreciate them,” said Rep. Bolinsky. “Remember, every one of these selfless women and men play a role in safeguarding our freedoms. I’m so grateful for their service and hopeful that the flowered heart I painted this year brightens someone’s day.”
“These hearts serve as a dual reminder. It reminds us here at home that we should always share our gratitude and love for the people that are actively protect our freedoms and rights as Americans. On the other side, it lets those know who are on deployments whether it be halfway across the globe, or serving in submarines underneath its surface, that they have people who truly care about them and appreciate the sacrifices they make for us,” said Sen. Hwang.
Hearts of Hope is a healing art program formed following the September 11, 2001, attacks. The Newtown chapter was started in the wake of the shooting at Sandy Hook School in December of 2012.
“Thank you to Diane Sarna, the President of Newtown Hearts of Hope, in addition to Ivy Pedersen and Donna Monteleone, Post Commander of the American Legion Post 202, for their continued leadership and efforts in serving those who serve us,” said the delegation.
The American Legion sponsored the Newtown event. Foncello is a member of the Legion, having retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from military intelligence with the Army. He also served in Washington, D.C. immediately following 9/11. Bolinsky is a Son of the American Legion.