Friday evening in Southbury, dozens gathered for a Sandy Hook dinner fundraiser at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Southbury is 10 minutes away from Newtown, so the tragedy hit home even closer for some.
Karyn Marinella, a friend of Victoria Soto, was one of the organizers of the event.
The proceeds will benefit Soto’s scholarship fund, Sandy Hook Ground, Jesse Lewis Choose Love Foundation, and first responders.
“I lost my friend, and three friends lost their children. For people to come out and do this and take their time on their busy weekend to support this means a lot to us,” she said.
“We just need to show compassion, come together show compassion for others and make sure the families know they are not alone,” said Tim Chambers, who traveled from California. Chambers is part of the Rolling Thunder a military advocacy group.
At the end of the dinner and silent auction, a candlelight vigil was held, led by a prayer and then the name reading of the victims.