SHREVEPORT, La. — The Community Foundation of North Louisiana has established two funds to support survivors and strengthen domestic violence prevention efforts after a fatal April 19 incident in the city.
Eight children were killed and three others, including two adults and one child, were seriously injured in what officials described as an act of domestic violence. The incident prompted an outpouring of support from across Louisiana and beyond.
At the request of the City of Shreveport, the foundation launched the April 19 Survivors Fund to address immediate needs of those affected. The fund will be administered in coordination with the city and Volunteers of America North Louisiana.
A second initiative, the April 19 Memorial Fund to Prevent Domestic Violence, will provide grants to nonprofit organizations focused on prevention efforts and victim assistance, according to the foundation.
“Community is essential for healing after tragedy,” said Kristi Gustavson. “Community Foundation of North Louisiana is honored and humbled to assist the City of Shreveport in raising money to provide for the needs of the survivors and strengthen our community’s domestic violence prevention and assistance resources. Let us come together to support those who are suffering and remind them no one is alone.”
Donations to both funds are being accepted through the foundation’s website. Officials said the effort is intended to provide both immediate relief and longer-term support for community-based responses to domestic violence.