On the afternoon of December 14, 2012, I sat at my desk staring at the computer in disbelief as news of the shooting at Sandy Hook School broke. I was heartbroken for the families and horrified as a new mother who could imagine her children sitting at their desks in a classroom within a few years' time. What could I do to protect them?
I soon found Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, an organization that advocates for common sense gun laws and policies. I have been volunteering with the organization ever since. Four years ago I never would have anticipated that I would now spend several hours a week learning about gun violence, organizing others who care about this issue, talking with legislators, and educating parents and adults about keeping kids safe from unintentional shootings. But, with 93 Americans dying daily and 1,300 children dying yearly as a result of gun violence, I cannot turn a blind eye.
Over the past few years I've given numerous presentations about safe gun storage and offered hundreds of free gun locks to parents through Moms Demand Action's Be SMART for Kids program (www.besmartforkids.org). I deeply appreciate all of the moral support my friends and family have given me. Now, you have the chance to support me in another way. Our supply of free gun locks is dwindling, just as the problem is growing -- Indiana ranked 4th in the nation in unintentional child shootings last year. Will you please join me in the fight to end gun violence with a gift of $25 towards my fundraising goal of $1000? Your tax deductible contribution will help the Indiana chapter of Moms to purchase gun locks for distribution, create programs that engage gun violence survivors, and educate others about the epidemic of gun violence in America. If you are unable to give $25, please know that any amount will be appreciated. Thank you!