The city of El Paso is recovering from a mass shooting Saturday, Aug. 3, when a gunman opened fire at Walmart near Cielo Vista Mall, killing 22 and injuring 26.
Days later, the injured are still healing while the community honors those who lost their lives with vigils across the region and nation.
The El Paso community has promptly united to help those affected.The Paso del Norte Health Foundation and the El Paso Community Foundation have set up relief funds for the victims and their families.
Paso del Norte Health Foundation
The Paso del Norte Health Foundation’s Director of Communications Ida Ortegon said the foundation needs monetary donations, but due to the sudden nature of this past weekend’s shooting the foundation is still ironing out what types of donations are needed.
“In coordination with the City of El Paso’s Office of Emergency Management, $500 gift cards will be delivered (Tuesday) to the victims and their families for immediate financial assistance,” Ortegon said. “Additional financial support will be coordinated with the city, other funders and community stakeholders to ensure that the resources are used to provide direct support to victims and their families.”
To donate to the Paso del Norte Health Foundation visit their website: pdnhf.org.
El Paso Community Foundation
The El Paso Community Foundation also manages a fund for victims and their families.
Earlier this week, American Airlines confirmed it will donate $75,000 to the foundation. The airline will also donate $75,000 to the City of Dayton, Ohio to support victims and families of a shooting that took place only hours after the El Paso Walmart shooting.
“We are saddened by the tragic events that took place this weekend in El Paso and Dayton,” American Airlines Chairman and CEO Doug Parker said.
According to the foundation’s website, FirstLight Federal Credit Union will match the next $25,000 donated to the fund.
The foundation will waive all administrative and credit card processing fees associated with this fund. To donate to the El Paso Community Foundation, visit epcf.org.
Local businesses
Perches Funeral Homes’ owner, Salvador Perches, announced that the funerary will offer free services for the victims who died in Saturday’s shooting.
Perches also announced that they will cover 100% of the costs and ask El Pasoans to donate to other funds.
Some businesses have started selling “El Paso Strong” merchandise to raise funds for the victims. Some of these businesses are Pure Las Cruces, Mt. Needless Embroidery, Wood + Mor, and Chuco Relic.
Khalid
Grammy-Nominated singer Khalid, an El Paso native, has also shown support for the city and is planning a concert to support the victims and their loved ones. On Twitter, he wrote, “over the past few days, my mind and heart have been heavy. Hearing/seeing an act of terrorism happen so close to home, my family, and my friends has been unbelievable and shocking. Singing “915” and ‘City of El Paso’ on tour every night feels indescribable.”
“Over the past few days, I’ve been thinking of ways to help out and support the city,” he also tweeted. “I’m planning for a benefit concert later this month, all of the proceeds will go to the families affected by the shooting. Sending everyone my love and will keep you guys updated.”
The benefit concert will be at the Don Haskins Center September 1, 2019. No official time has been given at this time.
Grammy nominated artist and El Paso native Khalid will be hosting a benefit concert September 1 at the Don Haskins Center.
