How You Can Support the Sandy Hook Community
In the wake of the Sandy Hook shooting, many are asking what they can do.
Dec. 17, 2012 — -- In the wake of Friday's tragedy in Newton, Conn., many are asking how they can help the victim's families and the community affected. A number of funds, drives, and memorials been created in the aftermath of the shooting rampage which took the lives of 20 children and six adults at the Sandy Hook Elementary School.
Here are seven ways you can support those affected:
1. The Sandy Hook Support Fund
The United Way of Western Connecticut established a fund on Friday which will provide support services to families and the community. All donations to this fund will go directly to those affected."To several staff, volunteers and contributors, Newtown is home," the United Way of Western Connecticut says on its website. "We will stand with the community and everyone affected directly and indirectly by this tragic event as we face the days and weeks ahead."
This website is asking for donations to assist the victims' families cover funeral costs in the short term and to build a lasting memorial in the community to remember those who lost their lives. The founder, Brian Mauriello, describes himself as a near-lifetime resident of Newtown.
A fund has been created to help the family of one of the victims, 6-year-old Emilie Parker. Find out how you can help here.
4. Friends of the Engel Family Fund
One of the 20 school children killed Friday was 6-year-old Olivia Engel. Find out here how you can donate to their fund, set up by a family-friend.
5. Support Family of Noah Pozner
Yet another child lost in Friday's tragedy was 6-year-old Noah Pozner, for details of how you can support the Pozner family, visit their Facebook page.
6. R.I.P. Sandy Hook Elementary School Children
By Monday morning more than one million Facebook users had joined the R.I.P. Sandy Hook Elementary School Children group to offer their condolences and words of support.
7. Evergram
Send a virtual message of support for the community affected by recording an "Evergram." The messages will reportedly be put together and delivered to members of the community.
Know of other ways to help this community? Share them in the comments.
>UPDATE: A prior version of this article cited the incorrect link for the R.I.P. Sandy Hook Elementary School Children Facebook page.