LANSING, Mich. (AP) — An online fundraiser organized for the family of Thomas 'Jake' Sanford, who tragically opened fire in a Michigan church and set it ablaze, has remarkably raised over $275,000 within only a few days. Described as a 'whirlwind of love and forgiveness,' the fundraiser reflects the community’s compassion amidst hardship.
On Sunday, Sanford, 40, drove his truck into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, shooting at the congregation and igniting flames that consumed the building. The attack resulted in four fatalities and injured eight others, with police ultimately killing Sanford at the scene.
Community member Dave Butler, who frequently follows coverage related to his faith, recognized that Sanford’s family also suffered as victims of the tragedy. 'We understand that there is a family that needs to be taken care of,' he stated, which inspired him to create the fundraiser on GiveSendGo.
Butler initially set a goal of $10,000 to assist Sanford's family in the aftermath of the attack. However, in a matter of days, donations surged beyond expectations, garnering attention for its uniqueness compared to conventional funds that typically support victims of mass shootings. Butler mobilized connections from podcast participation to help promote the campaign.
While authorities have not disclosed a motive for Sanford's violent behavior, long-time friends indicated that he displayed animosity towards the church and its members after living in Utah, where he previously dated a member of the faith. Despite this darkness, the fundraiser emphasizes the collective willingness of individuals to direct their grief towards acts of kindness rather than retaliation.
The outpouring of support came from over 7,000 donors, many of whom expressed solidarity as fellow church members. 'Another Latter-Day Saint here, praying for this family to feel loved and supported during these challenging times,' shared one donor.
Butler noted that the response aligns with tenets of forgiveness and compassion central to their faith. He referenced scriptures that emphasize caring for those in need and shared the sentiment that healing can emerge from the ashes of tragedy.
Lisa Louis, a victim's family member present during the shooting, conveyed her forgiveness towards Sanford almost immediately following the event. 'I forgave the gunman with my heart,' she shared, a sentiment that Butler believes resonates deeply with both the contributors and the Sanford family.
Butler remains in touch with Sanford's family and feels hopeful that the outpouring of messages from donors will foster a sense of community and connection during this challenging time, stating, 'I hope that healing can come soon and that this can be part of the experience of healing.'
