FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE/Distribution
15 September 2023 (National/New York)
In an updated release Friday afternoon, and following a telephone conference with Utica Mayor, Robert M. Palmieri and Chief of Police, Mark Williams; The Uvalde Foundation For Kids, a nonprofit dedicated to ending school violence, announced it has requested the city to award on the foundations behalf, its National, "Abby Zwerner Hero Teacher Award," granted those who show dedication and heroism to students, to school security officer, Jeffrey Lynch, recently injured following a shooting incident, at a recent HS Football game at Thomas R Proctor High School.
Foundation officials also noted in the release that it will be recognizing the efforts of Utica Police on scene as well as the city response in the days following the shooting incident.
National Director, Daniel Chapin released the following statement to the release stating,
"The Uvalde Foundation For Kids not only recognizes the bravery and dedication of Mr Lynch but the swift, dedicated response by city & law enforcement officials to ensure the school community has answers to the many questions surrounding the case and the welfare of its students. It is encouraging to us to see such a collective dedication and comittment to maintaining the safety of students."
Officials announced that the foundation is confident in the safety of the district, it's students and the city overall, quoting evidence showing Utica as one of the standards other cities across the nation would be, "wise to follow."
The foundation also stated in the release that Officer Lynch joins other Hero Award recipients, such as Abby Zwerner of Richneck Elementary School in Virginia & several officers who responded to the Covenant School shooting in Tennessee. The foundation confirmed that it has launched an official GOFUNDME for the wounded officer & has asked the city of Utica to aide in oversight and distribution
The foundation release further noted that an official award presentation will be coordinated by law enforcement, school officials & the Mayor's Office in the future after allowing for Mr Lynchs recovery....
The Uvalde Foundation For Kids
888 685 8464
