While most are aware of the $23 million that has been raised thus far for the victims of the June 12 Pulse massacre, the untold tragedies of the survivors remain in play. To that end, many of the diverse funding sources for those who have been immediately impacted are asking for more money, grass-roots style.
Under the banner of “Heal Orlando,” many groups are leaning in to buffet dwindling resources just two months after the event. Here’s a press release. Do what you can, please.
ORLANDO LGBTQ ALLIANCE SEEKS FURTHER RELIEF FOR PULSE VICTIMS
Orlando, FL — August 12, 2016 Two months after the shooting at Pulse Nightclub, notable political candidates are using Orlando as a backdrop to partner with organizations linked to anti-LGBTQ causes and lobbying efforts. The LGBTQ Alliance, a coalition of Orlando and Central Florida-based organizations, oppose any groups or events that facilitate discrimination and instead urge people to continue helping those affected by the tragedy.
“The OneOrlando fund, which has raised $23 million dollars to date, is still far short of the amounts needed to adequately care for the hundreds of people who registered for assistance,” said Carlos Carbonell, a board member of OneOrlando. “Many of these injured individuals have lost jobs and housing, while others will have to endure a lifetime of extensive and costly medical treatments. By comparison, the $61 million in donations raised following the Boston Marathon bombing was said to have not been enough, meanwhile many more people were severely injured here in Orlando.”
To fulfill immediate needs until the OneOrlando fund is dispersed in October, Pulse of Orlando was formed to allocate funds to the victims families, survivors and Pulse staff. To date, Pulse of Orlando has raised $175,000 and distributed more than $90,000 to eligible victims. “We need at least $300,000 more in donations in order to provide until the larger fund is released,” said Robin Maynard, a director for Pulse of Orlando. “Pulse of Orlando continues to provide navigation and advocacy for those affected, connecting them with the OUAC and other healing resources.”
The LGBTQ Alliance formed in the wake of the tragedy and created HealOrlando.org, an evolving portal to direct people and businesses wishing to help towards the many areas where they can donate and volunteer. Alliance members have also been working tirelessly with federal, state, county and city officials as well as other community leaders to ensure that immediate needs are identified and resources are allocated in a timely and appropriate manner.
“When each organization was operating individually it was difficult to coordinate and communicate our needs,” said Carbonell, also an Alliance member. “By unifying together, we have become much more effective in helping our communities heal.”
Alliance members include the GLBT Community Center of Central Florida, Equality Florida, Center for Multicultural Wellness and Prevention, Come Out With Pride Orlando, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Hope & Help, Human Rights Campaign, Impulse Group, Libby’s Legacy, MBA Orlando, Miracle of Love, Orlando Gay Chorus, Out & Equal, Orlando Youth Alliance, Pulse of Orlando, PFLAG, The Venue, Two Spirit Health, Watermark and Zebra Coalition.
For links to donate plus more information on the LGBTQ Alliance / HealOrlando: http://healorlando.org.
