MPK Community Healing Fund Continues to Support Victims of the January 21, 2023 Shooting ...

MPK Community Healing Fund Continues to Support Victims of the January 21, 2023 Shooting and Foster Well-Being in Monterey Park

Almost two years after the devastating shooting at Star Ballroom Dance Studio on January 21, 2023, the Monterey Park Community Healing Fund continues to provide vital support to those affected. This joint initiative by the City of Monterey Park and the California Community Foundation was established to help the community heal and rebuild. Thanks to the generosity of donors from around the world, the fund has raised over $200,000, enabling it to provide direct assistance to victims and support community-wide healing initiatives.

Helping the Hidden Hurt: Invisible Victims of Tragedy

A significant portion of the funds were specifically allocated to grants for individuals directly impacted by the tragedy. These individuals, often unable to qualify for other forms of assistance, received support to address their emotional trauma, economic hardship, and other challenges. To date, 48 grants totaling $144,000.00 have been awarded, providing critical financial assistance.

Supporting Local Organizations

In addition to individual support, the fund has invested in local organizations dedicated to the well-being of the community. Programs supported by the Monterey Park Community Healing Fund include:

• Boys and Girls Club of West San Gabriel Valley: The grant will empower local youth through their ongoing "Kindness is Free" initiative and foster intergenerational connections by collaborating with the Monterey Park Langley Senior Center on various art projects.
• Monterey Park Firefighters Relief Fund: Essential funding will be provided for mental health programs to support firefighters who responded to the mass shooting.
• Therapicasso: On-site art workshop sessions will be offered at various elementary and middle schools within the Alhambra Unified School District to address increasing mental health-related incidents.
• Asian Youth Center/Anti-Asian Hate Coalition: With the fund's support, three impactful events were hosted in the San Gabriel Valley to address hate-based violence and its aftermath. These events included:
  1. A panel discussion honoring the victims of the Atlanta hate shooting, exploring hate crimes and legal implications.
  2. A deep dive into California's hate crime laws and community response strategies.
  3. A focus on mental health, addressing the trauma of hate crimes and providing essential support resources by mental health experts.
• MPK Hope Resiliency Center: Provided funding for a dinner and dance to support the mental health of victims and families impacted by the tragedy. This event offered a space for healing, remembrance, and community building through the power of dance.

A Commitment to a Safer Future

The Monterey Park Community Healing Fund has also taken proactive steps to prevent future tragedies. In collaboration with the District Attorney's Office and local law enforcement, the Monterey Park Community Healing Fund hosted a Gun Violence Restraining Order Training equipping community members with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves and others. This training video can be viewed on the City of Monterey Park's YouTube channel @MontParkTV under the title "MPK Gun Violence Restraining Order Training."

As the community continues its journey of healing, the Monterey Park Community Healing Fund remains steadfast in its commitment to providing ongoing support and resources. Donations will be accepted until February 28, 2025. For more information, please visit www.mpkhealingfund.org. For additional mental health, victim and safety resources, please visit www.montereypark.ca.gov/healmpk.

Media Contact
City Manager's Office
626-307-1255
www.montereypark.ca.gov

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