How To Help Las Vegas Shooting Victims In Mission Viejo

MISSION VIEJO, CA — With the Las Vegas mass shooting incident that killed 59 and left over 500 injured, residents of Mission Viejo are seeking ways to help. Across Facebook and other social media sites, residents are seeking ways to donate time, money and even blood to aid the victims and their families.

A general GoFundMe campaign was set up by Clark County Commission Chair Steve Sisolak to fundraise for victims of the shooting. The funds raised will provide relief and monetary support to victims and their families. Donate online: Go Fund Me Clark County.

Over $3.3 million dollars of the $4 million goal has been raised by 48,000 people in just one day of donations.

• A GoFundMe campaign was initiated for Matt Cox, son of long time Mission Viejo residents Greg and Linda Cox. Matt is recovering from wounds sustained in the shooting. He is recovering from surgery following being shot in the chest.

This picture of Lauren and Matt was taken yesterday just hours before the shooting took place. Matt was shot in the chest and had to undergo surgery late last night to remove part of his lung. He is now recovering in the ICU where he will be closely monitored over the next few days.

Matt, Lauren, and their families are absolutely BLOWN AWAY by the love and support you all have shown them during this extremely horrifying time in their lives. Your generous hearts and donations are appreciated beyond measure. Matt still has a long road ahead but is stable and grateful to be alive.

• A GoFundMe campaign has been established for Eastvale mother of four young children, Rocio Guillien who was killed in the mass shooting. $20,000 of the $30,000 goal has already been raised.

"I am overwhelmed and overcome with emotion to see everyone coming together to help a loved one in their time of need," organizer Anel Fierro said. "There is no doubt that every penny raised will help out Chris and kids tremendously. Thank you all for your generosity and prayers."

Other ways to donate...

The National Compassion Fund donates 100-percent of donations to victims of crime, according to that organization's website.

Contribute directly to support the immediate and long-term needs of the victims of the October 1st terror attack in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Your gift will provide critical support to the victims and their families. 100% of the funds received through the National Compassion Fund Las Vegas will be distributed directly to victims.
Donations to the Fund are held separately from general donations to the National Center for Victims of Crime.

The American Red Cross encourages residents to host a blood drive, donate blood or funds. Visit www.redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) for more information.

"The American Red Cross urges eligible donors of all races and ethnicities to give blood to help ensure a diverse blood supply for patients in need," a media spokesperson said.

According to a CNN report, donors in Las Vegas waited as long as 6 hours to donate blood, and more is needed. The American Red Cross says that during National Emergency Preparedness Month is a perfect time to donate blood in all cities across the country.

Life Stream Blood bank has stated that as of Tuesday morning, all immediate blood needs for the victims has been met.

"If you would like to donate blood in honor of those who were lost and those recovering, we ask all donors to set an appointment to give blood later this week and into the next few weeks," LifeStream said. "When tragedy strikes, it is our natural response to want to help those in need; please remember there is always a need for someone here in our own community. It is important that we continue to have a steady and ample blood supply so we can be prepared for an immediate need here at home or in the event of an event like the attack on Las Vegas."

You can make a difference by scheduling a blood donation 2 or 3 times a year.
For an appointment to give the gift of life, please call 800-879-4484 or click here: giftoflife.lstream.org/donor/schedules/zip

For more information on blood donation, click here: www.lstream.org/about-donating/donation-facts/

Life Stream blood donations will be accepted in Fountain Valley on Oct. 8, and in Cypress on Oct. 6.

If you or someone you know is looking for information about loved ones still missing in the Las Vegas area, call: 1-800-536-9488.

GoFundMe Images