Find materials to support Pittsburgh's Tree of Life Synagogue victims.
From Grantmakers of Western Pennsylvania: The GWP community is grieving for the injuries and loss of life at Tree of Life on October 27, 2018. It is hard to fathom that our beloved home has become another terrible instance of lethal violence, fueled by hate. Together with others in the community, we offer our sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who were killed and wounded. With the resources below, we hope to make a contribution to the process of healing and recovery. Thousands of people gathered on Sunday for a vigil to remember those who were victims of the shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue. Mayor Bill Peduto, Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald and numerous other dignitaries spoke at the event and called for unity over hatred. The Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum vigil featured a video message from the president of Israel and an in-person message from an Israeli cabinet minister.
Many community leaders have issued statements about the tragedy.
- The Pittsburgh Foundation, Board Chair Dr. Edie Shapira and President Maxwell King
- The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania, Executive Director Bob Nelkin
- Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald
- Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto
In response to the shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue on Saturday, GWP is compiling resources for those interested in providing support:
- The Pittsburgh Foundation launched the #LoveIsStronger crowdfunding campaign to raise funds to support eight organizations engaged in meeting the needs of those killed and wounded during the shooting at Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill neighborhood. The Foundation is contributing a dollar-for-dollar match up to $150,000 now through 11:59 p.m., Nov. 4. Full details are available at www.pittsburghgives.org.
- Jewish Federation - Victims of Terror Fund: If you would like to help, you can contribute to the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh's "Our Victims of Terror Fund." The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania will match donations, doubling the impact of your contribution up to $100,000. 100% of donations collected for the "Our Victims of Terror" fund will support psychological services, support for families, general services, reconstruction, additional security throughout the community, medical bills for all those involved, as well as counseling and other services that may prove necessary in the future.
- GoFundMe: GoFundMe has established a page using its Certified Charity Campaign. Funds raised will go to the Tree of Life Congregation to help cover damage to the building as well as supporting survivors and victims' families.
- Islamic Center of Pittsburgh: The Muslim community is raising funds for the victims and their families, including funeral expenses and medical bills.Over $100,000 has been raised through the Launch Good campaign, Muslims Unite for Pittsburgh Synagogue.
- The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh is compiling information and resources related to Saturday’s tragic events and the grief and healing that will follow.
- Please note: while the American Red Cross of Southwestern PA has been providing assistance, it is not fundraising for its work with victims and families at this time.