To the Editor:

Recently, Families First sent out our annual appeal letter to all residents in the towns we serve. Although the letter was written before the hurricane, people have received it after the destruction.

I want everyone to know that all of our fundraising efforts this fall will be redirected to supporting the search for Marble Arvidson, and to help our families, friends, and neighbors in rebuilding their lives post Irene.

Many people have called in with tips around Marble. Even more have called in with offers to help and to send their prayers and concerns. I appreciate every call. We are still trying to build the timeline of exactly where Marb went, and who he was with on Saturday, August 27, at 2:15 pm. If anyone has an idea please call me at (802) 258-1390 or the Brattleboro Police at (802) 257-7946. We desperately need to get a more accurate idea of where to look for him. You could also post on the Facebook page created for the search (Google Marble Arvidson). There will also be information about volunteer opportunities for the search.

Even with the trauma and uncertainty of this past week, I have experienced Wilmington and Brattleboro, (Families First has offices in both towns) as focused, hard-working, and extremely caring. We are really looking out for each other.

Many thanks to all the law enforcement, social workers, and concerned citizens for all that you are doing for Marble, and for the rebuilding of our communities.

Julie Cunningham, LICSW

Executive Director, Families First

Wilmington