Following the news about today’s terrible, senseless and saddening shootings in Orlando that has left a nation stunned, the entire country is rallying around one another at this difficult time. And after thousands showed up to donate blood to those victims in need, a GoFundMe page has been started that has raised over $800,000 to help raise money for the families of the 50 innocent people killed in the attack, as well as the 53 people who are still fighting for their lives.
Here’s what the message from the GoFundMe says, which was started by Equality Florida, the state’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization.
Funds raised on this page will be going directly to the victims and families affected by the horrific shooting at Orlando’s Pulse Nightclub. Equality Florida is working with local organizations – who are also helping to raise funds – to ensure the money is distributed properly. Thank you for the support!
We are reeling from the tragic news that a gunman opened fire on the 2am capacity crowd at Pulse leaving 50 people dead and over 50 injured according to Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.
We are heartbroken and angry that senseless violence has once again destroyed lives in our state and in our country.
Gay clubs hold a significant place in LGBTQ history. They were often the only safe gathering place and this horrific act strikes directly at our sense of safety. June commemorates our community standing up to anti-LGBTQ violence at the Stonewall Inn, the nightclub that has become the first LGBTQ site recognized as a national monument.
We have received a steady stream of emails and messages from those seeking to help or to make sense of the senseless. We make no assumptions on motive. We will await the details in tears of sadness and anger. We stand in solidarity and keep our thoughts on all whose lives have been lost or altered forever in this tragedy.
The shootings in Orlando took place inside of Pulse Nightclub, and is the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history, so good on this group for helping to raise money for victims.