How to Help the Victims of the Texas Elementary School Shooting
On Tuesday, a gunman opened fire at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, reportedly killing at least 19 children and two adults in what is now the deadliest school shooting in a decade.
As the community grieves the unfathomable loss of life, organizations and locals are stepping up to provide resources and donations for those affected. Local funeral homes, Hillcrest Memorial Funeral Home and Rushing-Estes-Knowles Mortuary, announced victims' families will not be charged for funeral expenses.
Ahead, we list some of the ways you can help—whether you live in Texas or elsewhere.
Donate
GoFundMe has established a hub of verified fundraisers for the Uvalde community. So far, VictimsFirst, a network of families of the deceased and survivors of mass shootings, and Austin-based organization Los Verdes Supporter Group are working to collect donations for families of the victims. Additionally, the families of two victims—teacher Irma Garcia and student Xavier—have put up fundraisers.
For those looking to provide support to those who are fighting for gun control in the United States, below are some organizations known for their advocacy.
March for Our Lives, formed after the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, promotes civic engagement and direct action to fight against gun violence. Donate Here
Everytown is an umbrella organization that includes gun control groups Moms Demand Action, Students Demand Action, Mayors Against Illegal Guns, and the Everytown Survivor Network. Donate Here
Newtown Action Alliance is a national volunteer organization that was founded after the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School mass shooting. Donate Here
Team ENOUGH is a youth-led advocacy group that mobilizes young people against gun violence. Donate Here
The Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, the country's oldest anti-gun violence organization, works to pass gun control legislation in the country. Donate Here
Brady supports education, litigation, and legislation efforts to curb gun violence in the United States. Donate Here
Donate Blood
Some Texas locations are encouraging people to donate blood. "Your donation can help ensure we have supplies immediately available for the victims of this tragic shooting," University Health, a San Antonio–based health system, tweeted on Tuesday.
Those who are able may donate at University Health or South Texas Blood & Tissue. The latter organization is holding an emergency blood drive in Uvalde today (Wednesday, May 25).
Volunteer Legal Services
The San Antonio Legal Services Association is asking for volunteers who can provide pro bono assistance to victims and families who have unmet legal needs.
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