Hamden Community "Rallies" Around Police Department With Supplies

HAMDEN, CT – During difficult days when Mayor Curt Balzano Leng and other town officials have had to make difficult decisions while attempting to limit the spread of the coronavirus, local residents have been contributing to the effort. In a news release issued Friday by the Hamden Police Department, officials indicated that over the past month, a number of local residents and businesses have “rallied to provide much-needed supplies” and to express their gratitude for those working on the front lines.

For example, Hamden resident Carol Teodosio has donated more than 100 handmade reusable masks for the Hamden Police Department. Leng wrote in an email Friday morning that community members are making face-coverings which are offered to those who need assistance through a Hamden food bank. The effort will be useful after Leng issued an emergency order Thursday that states that beginning Friday night, members of the public will be required to cover their faces when they enter essential retail establishments. The order also mandates that business owners provide face-coverings from their employees, who must wear masks as they work.

In addition, Hamden resident Li Feng purchased 800 surgical masks that are being used by Hamden police officers while another resident, Burch Valldejuli has donated cases of gloves and hand sanitizer. Local businesses have also gotten into the act, police officials said. Splash Car Wash has contributed much-needed supplies including gloves and hand sanitizer while local restaurants have provided meals to officers.

“We at the Hamden Police Department cannot thank our residents and businesses enough for your continued support during this pandemic,” the release said. “Your dedication and thoughtfulness to our town is very much appreciated.”