Neighbors Helping Newtown

As one of the first clinical responders on the scene, Family & Children’s Aid was witness to the trauma and tragedy of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting of December 14, 2012 and immediately began the healing process for the children who survived.  Children from throughout Newtown who have been affected by this tragedy are now actively engaged in the FCA “Life Is Good Playmakers” healing methodology and the results have been significant. But there is more work to be done to help erase the horror of that day by creating new bonds through play and joy.

Family and Children’s Aid cordially invites the community to join them in a fund raising event Friday, May 3 to be held at the FCA Child Guidance Center, at 75 West Street in Danbury.

The event will raise funds to support the long term mental health needs for the children impacted by the events of 12/14/12. A cocktail reception, dinner and silent auction will be held at the site of FCA’s innovative “Playmaker Village”, state-of-the-art therapy center, which will be a highlight during the evening.

Also present will be Steve Gross, Chief Playmaker and Founder of the Life is Good Playmaker’s Foundation. A pioneer in utilizing exuberant, joyful and loving play to help children heal from the devastating impact of trauma, Gross is committed to the healthy development of children facing life's most difficult circumstances. Says Gross, "Children need food and water to survive, but to truly live, they’ve gotta play."   And play will be an important part of the evening on May 3rd.

“We have long been believers that the power of play can heal children and have built our program and our Center around this belief,” said FCA Development Director Dr. Nick Hoffman, who has been leading Playmaker groups with children who experienced the Sandy Hook tragedy that heart wrenching day in December.

“The children, who witnessed unspeakable terror at Sandy Hook, are now coming together to engage playfully.  Through play they can recapture the essential components of a healthy childhood – safety, joy and love. Children whose bond was the horror of that day are creating new bonds through play and joy. It will be a long process for them -- and for FCA -- but the work has begun and we promise to continue to be there as long as it takes,” Hoffman said.

Funds raised at the event will be used to support the work being done for the children and families of Newtown. FCA relies solely on philanthropic support for this vital work.

Family & Children’s Aid may be reached at 203-205-2633 or at www.fcaweb.org.