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. Find out more on besmartforkids.org.
  
  
• 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.
  
  
• 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. 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