Dear John–

During the global crisis we currently find ourselves in, I hope you and
your loved ones are finding the safety, support, and care that you need.

We recognize that our collective worries in the present moment may extend
beyond our personal health. In addition to ensuring that we stay
physically well by practicing social distancing and following the
guidelines of the CDC, we are faced by multiple ripple effects, including
financial instability and feelings of isolation. Reports of racism and
xenophobia towards Asian American and Pacific Islander communities have
also been on the rise.

I'm writing today to let you know that you have the support of the
Everytown family, as well as many other organizations. We're reaching out
to our peer organizations on the front lines to see how we can support
them, and to ensure that we support you in this difficult time in any way
we are able.

That's why today, I want to offer you resources that come from us and
other organizations with critical expertise. I hope these materials will
serve you well, reassure you that it's okay to seek help, and assist you
in taking care of yourself and your loved ones. We're in this together.

* Be SMART. With schools closed due to the COVID-19 national emergency,
millions of children and teens are spending a lot of time isolated
from friends and extended family. Assume children and teens know where
guns are stored and keep them locked, unloaded, and separate from
ammunition. [ [link removed] ]Find out more on besmartforkids.org.

* [ [link removed] ]National Domestic Violence Hotline. We know that there's a link
between financial stress and domestic violence. We also know that the
presence of a gun makes it five times more likely that domestic
violence will turn deadly. As a result, we are deeply concerned about
the well-being of individuals who may find themselves isolated in
places where they are at an acute risk of being a victim of domestic
violence or intimate partner violence. For any victims and survivors
who need support, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is here for
you, 24/7. Call 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 for TTY, or if you're
unable to speak safely, you can log onto thehotline.org or text LOVEIS
to 22522.

* [ [link removed] ]National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The stress and anxiety which
comes from the coronavirus pandemic, financial insecurity, and
feelings of isolation may put people at risk of self-harm. If you're
feeling alone and struggling, you can reach out to The Crisis Text
Line by texting TALK to 741741 or National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
at 1-800-273-TALK(8255), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

* Self-care. During this time, we're putting in a lot of effort to help
those in need—but we also need to make sure to take care of ourselves.
[ [link removed] ]See our guide on self-care practices that helps explain how you can
best care for yourself in a time of stress and uncertainty.

John, whatever else you do, please check in on your colleagues,
friends and loved ones, and make sure to take care of yourself. We cherish
and appreciate you, and we encourage you to seek help if you feel in
crisis.

We're thinking of you every day.

Sincerely,

Angela Ferrell-Zabala
Chief Equity, Outreach, and Partnerships Officer
Everytown for Gun Safety


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