GoFundMe verifies these fundraisers for victims of Rigby Middle School shooting
Published at | Updated at
RIGBY — With thousands of people wanting to donate to the victims of the Rigby Middle School shootings, more than a few online fundraisers have been started to help them.
Since there are so many out there, it can be difficult to know if all of the fundraisers are legitimate. EastIdahoNews.com asked GoFundMe to confirm which ones are for real, and the company responded with a list of verified pages, which it has confirmed will go to the stated victim.
“These fundraisers have been vetted and verified by our Trust and Safety Team, which will work with the campaign organizer to ensure the funds are transferred directly to those involved in this incident,” regional GoFundMe spokesman Jeff Platt said in an email. “It’s also important to know that the platform is backed by the GoFundMe Guarantee, which means funds are guaranteed to go to the right place, or donors will get a refund. Here is additional information on the GoFundMe Guarantee: www.gofundme.com/guarantee.”
The following links are verified fundraisers for victims.
Jim Wilson
The link to the Jim Wilson fundraiser is here.
Erick
The link for Erick’s fundraiser is here.
Addison
The link for Addison’s fundraiser is here.
General Fundraiser
The general fundraiser link is here.
The Rigby Middle School shooting occurred during the early morning Thursday when a sixth-grade girl allegedly opened fire with a handgun at her school. The shooting wounded two students — Erick and Addison — and a custodian, Jim Wilson. All three were rushed to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center but are expected to survive. Wilson was released from the hospital Thursday afternoon.
Teacher Krista Gneiting was responsible for disarming the shooter and holding her down until authorities could take her into custody. At least one GoFundMe has been set up for her; however, she has publically expressed a desire for people not to donate money.
“My heart is touched by all the incredible outpouring of love I’ve received,” Gneiting said in a Facebook post in a public group. “Thank you. I don’t want money, I just appreciate the incredible support of Rigby!!! I love my students so much! It is why I teach!! They make my heart happy every day!!!! All of the staff at Rigby did their part and kept our wonderful children safe! Thank you! I love you all and we will get through this together.”
