My name is Andrew Leneweaver. I am a United States Navy veteran and have proudly served as a firefighter with the Braintree Fire Department for over 20 years. I am seeking donations for the acquisition and training of a therapy dog for area first responders.

Throughout my career, I have witnessed a significant and ongoing challenge within the public safety community. Suicide and stress-related illnesses are the leading causes of death among firefighters and police officers, alongside occupational cancers. These issues continue to plague our profession and often go unspoken. Many first responders are reluctant to seek help, or they reach out only when it is too late. Tragically, I have personally lost several friends to this silent epidemic.

With the support of the department, I am launching a therapy dog program in Braintree. This dog will serve as a resource for all first responders and public servants in Braintree and the surrounding communities. She will be the first of her kind in this area and will be available to respond to traumatic incidents and critical events, helping to reduce stress, promote wellness, and ultimately save lives. In addition, she will be available to support students and faculty in the schools during times of crisis. She will be sworn in as a Braintree firefighter.

This program will be offered entirely free of charge and will never require payment for services. However, the acquisition, training, and care of a highly skilled therapy dog is costly. All training and ongoing care will be funded exclusively through donations. Our fire union, along with several generous individuals and nonprofit organizations, have already provided meaningful support. I am respectfully asking for additional donations to help secure and train this future hero. Across the Commonwealth and throughout the country, initiatives are being implemented to address this crisis. One highly effective and proven approach is the use of therapy dogs that are specially trained to detect stress, trauma, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. These dogs have become a powerful resource in supporting first responders during and after critical incidents.

The dog pictured is a five-week-old female who is ready to begin her training and service. She has the potential to become a hero for those who serve our community every day. I ask you to consider supporting this initiative and helping us protect the mental health and well-being of our first responders.

Thank you for your time, consideration, and continued support. This program is not run through the town of Braintree and we rely on private donations for the care and support of this dog. We hope to see you around town.

Sincerely,

Andrew Leneweaver