The Colorado Healing Fund (CHF) works directly with government agencies such as the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, their victim advocacy program, and the school district. Their focus is on supporting primary and secondary victims—those who were directly injured, their families, and those closest to them. Because CHF operates in partnership with these agencies, their process can sometimes feel less visible to the community, but it is designed to ensure funds are distributed responsibly and where there is verified need.

 

The #EvergreenStrong Community Recovery Fund was created locally by the Evergreen Legacy Foundation and the EHS PTSA in response to the lack of local representation in CHF. This fund exists to keep donations in Evergreen and to ensure support also reaches those impacted beyond just the primary and secondary victims. Recognizing this tragedy will have long-term effects, our community needs flexibility to provide assistance in a wide variety of ways. Unlike CHF, #EvergreenStrong is not bound by governmental requirements, so it can help more broadly—while also working with CHF to prevent fraud and coordinate efforts.

 

Colorado Healing Fund has asked the Evergreen Legacy Foundation to serve as its distribution partner, and a Memo of Understanding has been signed by both parties.

 

For those who wish to directly support Matthew Silverstone and his family, his GoFundMe is the most direct way to contribute to their immediate financial needs as doctors have told the family he faces a long and difficult recovery. Those costs will involve extraordinary medical expenses, home accessibility modification, specialized equipment and accessible transportation.

 

The second primary shooting victim remains anonymous at the request of the family.  Speaking through the Victims Advocacy arm of the Sheriff's Department, they have conveyed that the family is not in need of financial assistance at this time and would like donations be used to help others.