Meet anguish with action by supporting those affected by gun violence

In recent days, California cities Monterey Park, Half Moon Bay, and Oakland—in addition to  even more locations (Opens in a new tab) across the United States—joined the long list of communities who have been devastated by senseless acts of gun violence.

A person wearing a hoodie with the hood up is shown in profile, crouching down to light a candle. She is seen in profile in the glow of candlelight coming from dozens of votives surrounded by assorted flowers. A set of small votive candles are arranged in the shape of a heart near the person’s foot. Six heart-shaped red balloons float above the vigil.

Monterey Park, CA – January 23: A person lights a candle while paying their respects during a candlelight vigil honoring the victims of the mass shooting that occurred Sunday at the Star Dance Studio and left 11 people dead and 9 others wounded at Monterey Park Community Center in Monterey Park, Monday, Jan. 23, 2023.(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

The work we do at the Obama Foundation is guided by President Obama’s belief that our nation lives up to its founding ideals when ordinary people get involved and work to create change and support one another.

Below, you’ll find ways to support those impacted by the latest string of gun violence in California. If you or someone you know needs immediate care, please text CONNECT to 74174 to chat with a counselor at the National Crisis Text Line.

Take Action

Monterey Park Verified Fundraisers –  GoFundMe (Opens in a new tab) On January 21, 2023, 11 people were killed in a shooting at a dance studio in Monterey Park following a Lunar New Year celebration. You can donate to help with arrangements for victims’ families, memorials for the site, and more.

Additional Monterey Park Resources –  AAPI Equity Alliance (Opens in a new tab) Find additional resources for Californians and residents of Monterey Park in a range of languages.

Half Moon Bay Strong Fund –  Ayudando Latinos A Soñar (ALAS) (Opens in a new tab) ALAS (Opens in a new tab) is a Latino-centered nonprofit organization that began as a grassroots program in 2011. Their fund directly supports the victims, families, and the broader Farmworker community in Half Moon Bay.

Half Moon Bay Farmworker Shooting & Flood Victims –  GoFundMe (Opens in a new tab) The Farmworker Caravan has started a GoFundMe to help those impacted by the recent shooting, but also for victims of the serious flooding the area has experienced. If you live nearby, the Caravan is hosting a donation drive for  emergency items (Opens in a new tab).

Healthier Communities are Safer Communities –  Alameda County Food Bank (Opens in a new tab) Alameda County, home to Oakland, believes that “every child, adult, and senior should have the opportunity to reach their full potential and live vibrant, productive lives—nutritious food is essential to success.” Support Oakland families by making a donation or hosting a virtual food drive.

Take Care

CalHope Emotional Support Hotline (Opens in a new tab) Call 833-317-HOPE to speak with a counselor.

Asian Mental Health Collective (Opens in a new tab) Find a therapist near you.

Therapy for Latinx (Opens in a new tab) Find a therapist near you.

The Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM) (Opens in a new tab) Get the support you need.