River Region United Way establishes fund to help victims of Montgomery mass shooting
The River Region United Way has announced that it is starting a fund to help the victims of the mass shooting in downtown Montgomery that left two people dead and a dozen others injured, some critically.
As Action 8 News has reported, the shooting happened in a crowded area just before midnight Saturday, October 4, in the area around Bibb and Commerce streets, in the heart of the city’s tourist area where many events had taken place throughout the day.
The two people killed have been identified as 17-year-old Jeremiah Morris and 43-year-old Shalanda Williams. Of the 12 people injured, five of them are in life-threatening condition.
The River Region United Way says all money it raises will go to support those victims and their families that were directly impacted by the event, specifically for funerals, trauma and grief counseling and monthly bills. Any remaining funds will be used to support Helping Montgomery Family Initiative. That’s a program in the Montgomery District Attorney’s Office that works with Montgomery Public Schools and many local agencies to address truancy.
“To the families of Shalanda Williams and Jeremiah Morris, no words could convey how heartbroken we are over the loss of your loved ones through this violent and senseless act. And to the other victims and their families our prayers will continue for your recovery and healing,” says Jannah Bailey, President and CEO, River Region United Way. “Our community has changed forever but River Region United Way stands ready to help our city recover with each of us stepping up to help.”
To give online go to www.rruw.org and designate your donation to UnitedMGM.
You can also text UnitedMGM to 41444.
If you are a family member or victim and need assistance, call River Region United Way (334) 264-7318.
