A Fund for Orlando Victims Is off to an Incredible Start
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A GoFundMe page set up for the victims of the Orlando mass shooting raised more than $500,000 in seven hours.
GoFundMe - gofundme.com
Equality Florida, an LGBT rights organization, launched the fund shortly after reports emerged of a mass shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida early Sunday morning. The massacre left 50 people dead and at least 53 others injured, making it the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history.
The fund was flooded with donations within hours of its launch. At the time of writing, more than 13,000 people have donated, contributing a total of more than $500,000. The response was so overwhelming that Equality Florida increased its goal from $500,000 to $1 million.
Pulse Orlando - pulseorlandoclub.com
The money raised will go "directly to the victims and families affected by the horrific shooting at Orlando's Pulse Nightclub," according to the GoFundMe page. "Equality Florida is working with local organizations — who are also helping to raise funds — to ensure the money is distributed properly."
In a statement on its website, Equality Flordia wrote:
"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."
In the wake of Sunday's massacre, the success of a fund dedicated to the victims and empowerment of the LGBT community stands out.
