6 Verified Ways to Help Victims, Families Affected by the Lewiston, Maine, Shootings

Following the senseless murders that killed 18 innocent people and injured 13 others, Mainers and beyond have come together to help the victims and their grieving families affected by the tragic events that occured in Lewiston on October 25.

Everyone seems to want to help in whatever way they can, so we thought we would put some verified fundraisers all in one place.

This way, you can choose which platform you would like to use to help the families of the victims.

The great thing about all of these fundraisers is at the end of the day, 100% of the proceeds are going directly to the families, and they are verified fundraisers. It's a sad reality, but unfortunately, we are living in a world where bad people like to take advantage of bad situations for financial gain.

With these fundraisers, you can feel good about where your money is going.

A popular and simple way to donate has been the Lewiston-Auburn Area Response Fund, which was put together almost immediately by Lewiston Native Tom Caron, who sprung into action to help families. He said in part:

"MaineCF has created the Lewiston-Auburn Area Response Fund to address current and emerging needs associated with this tragedy. With MaineCF as a conduit, 100% of every dollar donated will be allocated to people impacted and the organizations that will help guide Lewiston-Auburn through the process of healing."

Local designer Victor Rios and Expose Design wanted to show their support by selling these one-of-a-kind t-shirts, with direct support going to the victims and their families and showing indirect support for Lewiston as a community.

These shirts are very limited, in an attempt to help with relief efforts as soon as possible. You can get yours here. All of the proceeds will go directly to the victims and their families via the Lewiston-Auburn Area Response.

The City of Lewiston has also established a place where people can donate called the City of Lewiston Families and Victims Fund. You can also make a cash donation at any Androscoggin Bank location as well.

The Mills Administration has also created a platform called Healing Together. This appears to be a nice one-stop shop with several outlets where people can not only support the victims and families, but also provide resources for anyone who may be struggling with their mental health.

Lastly, the Boston Bruins themselves are feeling the pain that we are enduring here in Maine, as this horrific is all too familiar for them with the Boston Marathon bombings. The Bruins have pledged a minimum of $100,000, and you can help them hit that number by visiting TheMaineFund.org.