Kappas Come Together in Time of Tragedy
Words are difficult to find in comprehending what occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary School on Friday, Dec. 14. The pain becomes even more unimaginable when we learn that Kappa members have been directly affected by this tragedy. It is with a heavy heart that I share that a Kappa mother lost a son that day. And another Kappa sister, a teacher at Sandy Hook, bravely got her students to safety. A teacher who died that awful day was the cousin to a Kappa husband. We also grieve for the many others who have been affected by this tragedy, including a Pi Beta Phi Panhellenic sister who lost her life.
In times of tragedy, our Kappa world comes together. We are all one chapter supporting each other. And our members want to know what they can do to help at this moment. We know that the Kappas in the Sandy Hook communities are taking one day at a time, one hour at a time, and that we respect their privacy as they take the difficult next steps over the coming weeks with services for their child, their relative, and for their friends and neighbors. How can we, as a Kappa community, help?
Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity is accepting condolence cards, letters and notes of support so that we may pass them along to these Kappa families. Although suffering unspeakable loss, perhaps knowing that there are more than 180,000 sisters around the world supporting them, this grieving mother, a loving teacher, and family members will be comforted by your words.
If you wish to send a note of support, please address them to:
Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity
Attn: Sandy Hook community
P.O. Box 38
Columbus, OH 43216-0038
Kind words of support may also be posted on our website and Facebook page.
Through the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation, donations may be made to the Rose McGill Aid program, which provides confidential financial assistance to Kappas who find themselves suddenly and unexpectedly in need.
In addition, a Sandy Hook School Support fund has been set up that will be able to provide support services to the affected families and community. Donations may be made through the United Way.
It is in times like these that we come together as a Kappa community and support one another. Please keep those who lost their lives, those who have been traumatized and their grieving families in your thoughts and prayers.
Loyally,
Julie Marine Leshay
Fraternity President