State Rep. Carney Names Two Old Lyme Residents ‘Local Heroes;’ Datum, Seidner to Receive Official Citations

OLD LYME — When State Representative Devin Carney (R-23rd) put out a call for nominations of local heroes who have gone and continue to go above and beyond for others during the COVID-19 pandemic, Michelle Noehren submitted the names of Old Lyme’s Social Services Coordinator Jennifer Datum and Lymes’ Youth Service Bureau (LYSB) Executive Director Mary Seidner.

Carney has now selected both women as Local Heroes, saying by email, “In the 23rd District, there is a wonderful sense of community and volunteerism. We see it all around us every day and it has been amplified over the past month and a half.”

He continued, “Thank you to both Jennifer and Mary for supporting those in need and for all of your work during this crisis – you are 23rd District Heroes.”

Datum and Seidner will be highlighted on State Rep. Carney’s Facebook page and receive official citations once the Legislature is back in session.

According to Noehren’s nomination, Datum has helped many people in Old Lyme weather the storm this crisis has created. She interacts daily with people in need and helps them in a variety of ways, whether it be through financial assistance, an errand, help with groceries, or obtaining a mask. 

Datum has also developed a Lyme/Old Lyme Resource Guide that includes information about food banks and soup kitchens, local churches, Meals on Wheels, and so much more.

Noehren noted that Seidner has worked tirelessly to assist Lyme and Old Lyme residents and families with their needs and helped launch the LYSB Coronavirus Relief Fund, which was recently featured on NBC.

She and LYSB also created a mask program where people can drop off handmade mask donations to be given to community members who request them.

Editor’s Note: Michelle Noehren is the Senior Manager of Administration in the Old Lyme First Selectman’s Office.