SAN ANTONIO — Several victims in Tuesday's mass shooting at a Uvalde elementary school continue to battle their injuries at medical facilities, and initiatives to help both them and their families have been organized.
The University Health system, based out of San Antonio, says its donor rooms have availability for the next several days. More information can be found here. University Health has also set up a relief fund for victims.
The region's primary blood bank, the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center, said hundreds of donors contributed at a Wednesday blood drive in the community. Those who are still interested in contributing can make an appointment here.
Governor Greg Abbott Friday announced the OneStar Foundation has created a one-stop webpage for donations to support the victims' families, teachers, and the Uvalde community during this time of healing following the shooting earlier this week.
As a way to help those who have been directly affected by the mass shooting in Uvalde, VictimFirst has created a GoFundMe to help those victims and their families. You can donate to the GoFundMe here. More than $1.7 million has been donated so far.
VictimFirst is a nonprofit that was created by victims who have gone through similar experiences. They say 100% of the money donated goes back to the victims in cash payments.
The San Antonio Area Foundation expressed support for the Uvalde community. They've started the Uvalde Strong Survivors Fund to provide direct financial assistance to the survivors of the deceased and those directly affected by this tragedy.
Ken Paxton's office is offering services from the Crime Victims' Compensation Fund Program which is aimed at helping victims and their immediate families with financial costs, counseling, funeral costs, medical treatment and loss of income due to the crimes. The office has also listed the following resources:
UCISD said an account at First State Bank of Uvalde has been opened for families of Robb Elementary. If you would like donate, you are able to do so at any of the corresponding bank branches.
The Community Foundation of Texas Hill Country, a Kerrville-based nonprofit, has started a relief fund for the victims and their families, as well as others affected by the Uvalde shooting. You can donate here.
At least 21 people died in the shooting, including 19 children and one teacher. The 18-year-old gunman was also deceased.
San Antonio-based opportunities
United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County announced a United with Uvalde fund to assist those affected by the tragedy. The nonprofit is calling "on all corporations and individuals who are searching for a way to help to join our efforts to support Uvalde." It will go towards mental health resources, provided through local organizations who provide those services directly.
Amaretti Coffee, at the Pearl, said on Facebook Wednesday that it was donating 100% of its Wednesday and Thursday profits to victims' families.
At least two tattoo shops are offering deals with some proceeds going to the shooting victims:
- Nite Owl Tattoo Studio (7121 West U.S. Highway 90 #23) said it was offering a heart-in-Texas-themed design for $50, with all profits going to those affected.
- Presidential Ink (1132 West Hildebrand Ave.) said it was offering select designs in a $35 flash sale, along with a $15 donation from customers. $15 piercings are also being offered along with a $5 donation for victims. The initiative lasts until June 3.
Matcha Cafe Maiko (7115 Blanco Rd. Suite 112) said via Instagram it was donating its Thursday proceeds.
Noodle Tree San Antonio (7114 UTSA Blvd. #101) said on Facebook it was planning to donate 100% of this week's sales to victims and their families.
San Antonio-based Davies Entertainment is selling "Uvalde Strong" T-shirts, saying all proceeds are going to affected families.
Local nonprofit KJ's Angels said it was teaming with Cherrity Bar for a June 10 benefit concert, with all proceeds going to the city's effort to support victims.
San Antonio Gold will be collecting plush toys to give them to victims in Uvalde. They're hoping to collect at least 600 plushes as that was said to be the amount of students at Robb Elementary.
This story will be updated with other donation opportunities as they are announced.
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