Tragedy in Boston: How to help
April 19, 2013 -- Updated 1502 GMT (2302 HKT)
Two women embrace during a candlelight vigil in Somerville, Massachusetts, for the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing on Thursday, April 18. Three people died when two bombs went off Monday, April 15, near the finish line of the Boston Marathon.
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
- The city of Boston has established "One Fund Boston" to raise money for victims
- The Red Cross has several programs, including a way to help locate loved ones
- The Salvation Army is providing food and pastoral care
- Boston's Children's hospital is treating 10 victims
(CNN) -- Patriots Day is the third Monday in April marking the anniversary of the first battles of the American Revolutionary War. It is also the date for the Boston Marathon every year. It is meant to be a joyful celebration for the city, but yesterday that all changed.
Tragedy struck and lives were changed forever after two bombs exploded near the finish line of the marathon. Instead of celebrating the city, a nation now mourns the loss of three and the injuries of more than 100. But true to the American spirit, there are already people and organizations on the ground helping the victims, and you can join their efforts.
One Fund Boston
Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Boston's Mayor Tom Menino says the city has established 'One Fund Boston'. "At times like this we are one state, one city and once people," Governor Patrick said. Boston based insurance company John Hancock has already committed $1 million to the fund, which will raise money for families most affected by the bombings.
Donate to Onefundboston.org
The Red Cross
If you have not yet connected with your loved ones who were running the race, or if you were on the scene and haven't let your loved ones know where you are, please use the Red Cross's Safe and Well website. The Red Cross also has valuable information about dealing with an emotional crises.
The Red Cross recommends people download their First Aid app which provides information on how to help in emergency situations.
The Red Cross is on the ground and has mobilized emergency response vehicles and more than 100 trained disaster workers who are providing food, water, medical and emotional care for those affected by the bombings.
Give Blood
Governor Patrick said there is a need for blood on a sustained basis. Anyone wishing to give blood should keep checking with local hospitals and organizations like the Red Cross in the near future to see where the need may be and where to donate.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army deployed canteen trucks to the area to provide food. Officers have been dispatched to assist those in need.
"The Salvation Army continues to assist those impacted by the Boston Marathon explosions," Maj. Ivan Rock said. "Canteens were positioned at various sites throughout the city, including the Unified Command Post, the Family Assistance Center and Kenmore Square. An additional canteen roved throughout the impacted area supplying food, snacks and beverages to those in need. The Salvation Army will remain on site at the Family Assistance Center, located at the Park Plaza Castle as long as support is needed."
Rock continued, "The runners, their families, and the first responders also received emotional and spiritual care from 12 Salvation Army officers and 23 Salvation Army staff volunteers. Eight Salvation Army officers were deployed to various hospitals throughout the Boston area offering pastoral care as needed."
The Salvation Army has established a specific fund for the victims in Boston and you can donate to it here.
Boston Children's Hospital
Ten of the victims were taken to Boston's Children's Hospital. The hospital is updating its website with news as it becomes available. Follow @BostonChildrens on Twitter for updates.
The Children's Hospital website also has useful resources forguidance on how to talk to children after a tragedy.
Donate to Boston's Children's Hospital
Adidas Boston Tribute Tee
Adidas has designed a T shirt commending all the Boston first responders, the Boston Athletic Association and all volunteers for their reaction to the events surrounding the bombings. 100% of proceeds from sales of the T shirts will go to the OnefundBoston.org
Richard Family Fund
The Richard Family Fund has been established to help the family of 8 year old Martin Richard, who died in Monday's bombings. Martin's mother and sister were also badly injured. Funds will help with the family's medical expenses and recovery.
Celeste and Sydney Corcoran Recovery Fund
Celeste and Sydney Corcoran were both badly injured in Monday's blasts. Sydney sustained severe shrapnel injuries and Celeste has had both legs amputated below the knee. Anyone wishing to help the family with the financial burden of this tragedy can donate to a fund in their name.
White Family Fund
3 members of the White family sustained serious injuries in the explosions, and one family member has lost a limb. A fund has been set up through the website 'Youcaring.com' to help the family with recovery and rehabilitation.
Jeff Bauman Fund
Waiting to cheer his girlfriend across the finish line, Jeff Bauman was caught in the explosion and suffered the loss of both legs, severe burns and vision damage. A fund has been set up to help Jeff at 'Youcaring.com'.
Lu Lingzi Scholarship Fund
Trustees at Boston University have created a scholarship fund in the name of Lu Lingzi, the Chinese graduate student there who tragically died in the attacks. You can donate to the fund and also post messages of support to her family on the dedicated website.
Utilize social media
People often turn to Twitter for quick ways to connect. If you are in the Boston area and are looking for organizations seeking volunteers, or if you are far away but want to keep up with ways o help, follow the hashtag #BostonHelp on Twitter.
You also can keep up with us @CNNImpact or Impact Your World on Facebook as well as on our website.
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