Community Corner
Outpouring Of Support For Merrimack Family After Continental Boulevard Crash
Nearly $60K raised after a GoFundMe site was set up for the Venedam family who lost one member during a crash and were injured themselves.
MERRIMACK, NH — The friends of a Merrimack family who lost one of its members after a crash in which they were also injured are assisting in raising money for the family.
Laura Catanzano, the director of Apple Blossoms Child Center, started a GoFundMe.com site for the Venedam family on Saturday after they were involved in a head-on crash on Continental Boulevard Friday. Desiree Venedam, she said, one of the people injured in the crash, “cared for and loved children of this community for many years” at the center. Xander Venedam, who was a rear passenger in the Jeep, was killed during the crash, while Sean Venedam and Malaki Venedam were also injured.
“Des, Sean, and Malaki are suffering from various injuries, remain hospitalized, and will now have to deal with this unimaginable heartbreak,” Catanzano wrote. “They will have medical bills, services, and an incredibly long and painful road ahead of them. Any donation big or small, will be greatly appreciated.”
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Bill Olsen, the chief education officer for the Merrimack School District, confirmed Xander Venedam was a student at Merrimack High School on Saturday.
In a note on the district’s Facebook page, he said the school’s crisis team met with police to discuss how they would confirm the boy’s death.
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“Thoughtful plans are in place for providing care and comfort for Xander's friends, along with all students and staff beginning Monday morning,” he said. “I know that Merrimack is a very kind and caring town, and I ask that you say a prayer for Xander and his family and friends. Xander's spirit will remain in our thoughts and hearts and will bring us together as a school district and community.”
As of Tuesday, nearly $60,000 had been raised. Catanzano said the effort reached and surpassed a third targeted goal and was being increased.
“Thank you,” she wrote. “May the Venedams know how loved they are.”
To donate to the Go Fund Me effort, click here.
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