Simsbury Stays C.L.O.S.E. to Soldiers and Their Families

There are Simsbury men and women serving in the armed forces, leaving behind spouses and children who might need a helping hand while they are away. Lawns need mowing, leaves need raking, or perhaps a babysitter is necessary for an evening out.

Now they can turn to Simsbury’s Care and Love for Our Soldiers Everyday, (C.L.O.S.E).

Founded by Caroline Granger and other students at Simsbury High School, the program invites families of soldiers to contact the organization for assistance in a multitude of ways.

With the help of Deputy First Selectman John Hampton; Betty Forristall, Secretary of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars; and Ed Pabich, a Simsbury veteran, C.L.O.S.E. is trying to create a database of men and women currently serving in the armed forces.

“We don’t know if there are six soldiers from Simsbury or 600,” said Hampton. “We want to identify them and let them know that help is there if they need it. And, of course, that information would be maintained with the utmost respect and confidentiality.”

Granger, a junior at Simsbury High School, was inspired by a segment on Oprah to start the network. She and the other members of C.L.O.S.E. have created a menu of ways to assist the soldier and their families. They plan to make gift baskets that might include items such as movie tickets, a gift card to a favorite restaurant, or a gift certificate to a nail salon or spa for the women, or homemade treats. They would also shovel a driveway, garden, weed or plant flowers, help with spring cleaning or do other chores such as going to the grocery store.

“I am very excited about this initiative. It is a great way to reach out and say thanks to our soldiers and to support their families who are alone and may be need support,” said Granger.

C.L.O.S.E hopes the community will help their efforts. Individuals can sign up to be part of the support network, volunteering their time and talents. Businesses can also participate by donating gifts certificates, products or services.

The students plan many fundraisers to defray costs of running the program, including car washes, bake sales, and perhaps a golf tournament.

Hampton, Forristall and Pabich praised Granger and her colleagues.

“We are inspired by Caroline’s big heart and her willingness to take on this amazing cause. We are happy to help in any way. We’re confident that C.L.O.S.E. will take root in Simsbury and grow quickly,” said Forristall.

Families of soldiers who would like to register for the program or want more information, may contact Granger at 860-463-3519 or at caroline.l.granger@gmail.com or Hampton at 860-803.4072 or at jhampton@simsbury-ct.gov.

Anyone who wants to volunteer for the network or contribute money, products or services may contact them as well.