On July 4th, an Independence Day celebration in Highland Park was shattered by a mass shooting that killed seven people and injured dozens more. Highland Park joins a tragically long list of communities across our region and nation that have been devastated by senseless violence. Over the same holiday weekend, 62 people were shot, 10 fatally, in the City of Chicago.
Our hearts ache for the lives lost and for those whose lives have been forever altered by gun violence. Simultaneously, we know that so much compassion, care, and resilience exist in our communities. Our friends at the Lake County Community Foundation and the Highland Park Community Foundation have launched funds to support impacted families and community members.
Please see below for ways to support these efforts:
The Lake County Community Foundation Crisis Relief Fund - This serves as a permanent countywide funding resource in times of emergencies. LCCF is currently raising funds to support crisis relief efforts in the wake of the Highland Park shooting. Funds will be granted to support emergency response needs, mental health counseling services, downtown repair and revitalization, violence prevention and education, and other urgent needs as they arise in the aftermath of this tragedy.
Other Ways to Help
Donate Blood
NorthShore University Health Systems is still seeking blood donations for the victims of the shooting.
Family Service of Lake County: Walk-ins welcome for free mental health services from 9am-7pm. Both English and Spanish counseling is being offered. No identification required. (Location: 777 Central Ave, Highland Park, Suite 17, First Floor, 847-432-4981)
