A GoFundMe page set up in honour of Moose Jaw resident Shaun Holmes, who was the victim of a recent homicide, is gaining attention and support from the community since it was shared last week.
Organized by Elizabeth Livingstone, a cousin, the fundraiser is meant as both a memorial for Holmes as well as an offering of support for the family to help with funeral costs and other financial burdens at this time.
At the time of publishing, the GoFundMe had collected just over $4,000 of a $10,000 goal in less than three days. Livingstone spoke on behalf of the family, saying that the showing of support from the community has been a kind of comfort.
“It feels really good (to see),” said Livingstone. “It's nice to hear that people liked him and respected him, that he was kind and had a big heart. And it’s really nice to hear those things and see the support.”
Livingstone has also set up a memorial trust account at a local bank, as she’s had some expressed interest in donating to the family directly, rather than through an online page. Those wishing to help without using GoFundMe can e-transfer their support directly to [email protected].
For now, Livingstone says the best way to help the family during this time is to continue offering words of support and donations to the memorial fund while the family grieves.
“All of us have gotten condolences from far and wide, and it's really nice to hear those, but at the same time, it’s a little overwhelming, to have the amount come in that we did,” said Livingstone. “But keep sending thoughts and condolences, because I know (the family) is grateful for all the support that is coming in, and the support and condolences from the community, we’re very, very grateful for that.”
To contribute to the GoFundMe for the family of Shaun Holmes, search for the fundraiser “Funeral Costs and Memorial Fund for Shaun Holmes” on GoFundMe’s website.
