On Friday May 8, 2026, Lititz Police Detectives had the honor of participating in a fraud education event at Moravian Manor.  During the event, attendee's were able to hear the tale of Kate Kleinert, a victim who was caught up in a romance scam, and who turned the trauma she suffered into a way to educate and care for other fraud victims through providing empathy and compassion, where oftentimes, there is none.  Kate went on to create "Kate's Hug," which is a "survivor-led initiative by Advocating Against Romance Scammers (AARS) in partnership with The Center for Combating Elder Financial Abuse and Match Group."

After the event, Kate gifted a Hug Kit to the Lititz Police Department.  The Hug Kit contains a warm blanket signifying that nobody is alone, educational resources on romance scams, and recovery guidance for emotional and financial health.  The purpose of the kit is to help victims feel supported, heard, and equipped to begin recovery, while bridging trust between them and law enforcement.

Lititz Police thanks Kate for the Hug Kit she has gifted us with, and for being willing to share her story for the benefit of others.