January 15, 2019
Re: Implications of government shutdown on members/families of the U.S. Coast Guard
Dear Citizens of Cape Ann,
As you know, the now 24-day government shutdown is taking its toll on U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) members and their families. The Coast Guard, operating under the Department of Homeland Security, is the only branch of the military not being paid for their ongoing operations.
This morning, I met with Adam Curcuru, Director of Veterans’ Services; Chad Johnson, Assistant Harbormaster; Brian O’Connor, Commander, VFW Post 1624; Mark Nestor, Commander, American Legion Post 3; Julie LaFontaine, Executive Director, The Open Door, USGC Commander Sector Gloucester Kevin Morgan; State Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante; State Senator Bruce Tarr; and a representative from Congressman Seth Moulton’s Office to discuss the issue and how we as a community can best help our local USCG members and their families.
Together we have identified several donation options for those wishing to help. Please be sure to reference USCG when donating. That reference is needed to ensure donations be allocated to USCG members and their families.
Food Donations: At this time, we kindly ask that you do not bring any food donations to the Gloucester Coast Guard Station. All food donations should be directed to Open Door, located at 28 Emerson Avenue, Gloucester, MA.
Gift Card Donations: Gift cards to specific stores such as grocery stores, gas stations, general merchandise (Target or Walmart) and monetary gift cards (Visa, American Express or Mastercard) in any denomination are needed. These can be dropped off in Gloucester or sent to American Legion Post 3, P.O. Box 122. Gloucester, MA 01931-0122, VFW Post 1624 or The Open Door, 28 Emerson Avenue, Gloucester, MA 01930..
Monetary Donations: Monetary donations (check or cash) will be collected at the VFW, American Legion Post 3, P.O. Box 122, Gloucester, MA 01931-0122, Cape Ann Veterans’ Services, The Open Door, 28 Emerson Avenue, Gloucester, MA 01930 or at the Gloucester Fund (45 Middle Street, Gloucester MA). As a reminder, any monetary donations must include a reference USCG.
Clothing Donations: Clothes donations are not requested at this time. Once needs are determined we will provide additional guidance. Please use the other sources of giving recommended.
Thank you for all the outreach regarding this situation. The community’s desire to help is overwhelming. Together let’s help our local USCG community families during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Sefatia Romeo Theken
Mayor
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