The worst mass shooting in American history happened last weekend at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, known as a safe haven for the local LGBTQ community. The shooting killed 49 people and wounded 53 people. As the nation and world mourns, we are sending our love and support to everyone affected.
This tragedy reminds us that sharing acceptance, unity and love is more important now than ever. Since our founding, Happy Hippie has been committed to helping LGBTQ youth, and we want to make sure that local youth in Orlando know they are accepted and supported. That's why we're partnering with the Zebra Coalition, the only organization in Central Florida that can provide a full continuum of services to LGBTQ youth, as they respond to the immediate needs of local youth in the aftermath of the shooting. Happy Hippie's funding will help Zebra Coalition provide counseling and support services to youth reaching out for help.
To share more about our work in response to the Orlando shooting, our Founder posted a special message via Instagram:
"So inspired by the love and support from around the world, and there’s still so much work to do for our friends and community affected in Orlando. @happyhippiefdn is teaming up with @Zebra_Coalition to provide hundreds of LGBTQ youth in the Orlando area with counseling and support services since Sunday’s tragedy. Call 407-822-5036 to speak with a counselor and get help. Together we can make sure our community experiences healing, unity and feeling safe again.#LoveisLove #OneOrlando#OrlandoUnited #WeAreOrlando#OrlandoStrong"
How you can get involved:
- Donate here and we will direct your funds to support our work with Zebra Coalition in Orlando
- Donate here to directly support victims' families
- Show your support on social media using #LoveisLove #OneOrlando #OrlandoUnited #WeAreUnited #OrlandStrong