The CT Cancer Foundation raised over $91,000 as part of its successful first statewide No Shave November campaign, to benefit CT cancer patients and their families. Among the 40 police departments participating this year (plus one fire department, one school, and one company) was the Wilton Police Benevolent Association, which raised $1,625 for the cause.
During the month of November, police departments across the state relaxed their facial hair requirements and allowed their officers to grow beards. Instead of shaving, the officers fundraised in their department and in the community, with 100% of the funds supporting CT cancer patients to help with basic living expenses, such as rent, mortgage, and utilities.
Lt. David Hartman, who led Wilton’s fundraising efforts, reiterated their ongoing support for the community. “The Wilton PBA has always held a strong belief that as police officers we are put in a unique position to affect positive changes in the lives of those whom we have sworn to protect and serve.”
In Wilton, 25 officers participated. Female officers were permitted to wear the No Shave Bracelet to show their support. (pictured above, L-R: Officer Robert Smaldone, Officer Jon Patry, Officer Michael Tyler, Sergeant Anthony Cocco and Officer Frank Razzaia.)
No Shave November will especially benefit the family of Wesley Woronecki, a brave 15 year-old boy battling metastatic Ewing’s sarcoma. Wesley was the ambassador for this year’s No Shave November, which means that his family is eligible to receive a significant grant as a result of the fundraiser. The rest of the money raised will be distributed to CT cancer patients throughout the year.
Hartman says that helping cancer patients in Connecticut was particularly fulfilling. “The Wilton Police Benevolent Association was honored to help raise money for the Connecticut Cancer Foundation. It is rewarding to know that the money raised for CCF will go directly to help those affected with cancer here in Connecticut.”
Terri Eickel, the director of development for the CT Cancer Foundation said that the response from the police officers and their communities was inspiring.
“The police officers were so excited to participate, especially since the money they raised will stay in Connecticut, helping our residents who are fighting cancer,” she said. “Because of No Shave November, CT cancer patients throughout our state will be able to focus on their health and recovery, not worry about their bills. We are so grateful to all of the police departments and other organizations that participated–they truly made a difference in the lives of CT cancer patients this holiday season.”